Kansai Electric Power Initiates New Nuclear Reactor Construction in Japan

Kansai Electric Power Co. announced on July 22, 2025, that it will commence surveys for the construction of a new nuclear power reactor at its Mihama power station, located in Fukui Prefecture, western Japan. This development marks Japan's first significant move toward establishing a new nuclear facility since the catastrophic Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, which resulted in the shutdown of the Tokyo Electric Power Company's (TEPCO) Fukushima Daiichi plant.

The decision reflects Japan's urgent need to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and to enhance the nation's energy security through a revival of nuclear energy. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Minister Yoji Muto stated, "With a significant loss of nuclear power supply expected, it is necessary to rebuild with next-generation reactors, based on the premise of ensuring safety and gaining local understanding, to secure decarbonized power sources." Currently, Japan operates over a dozen reactors, which collectively provide around 12 gigawatts of power. However, many of these facilities are undergoing relicensing to comply with stricter safety protocols implemented post-Fukushima, as Japan previously operated 54 reactors before the disaster.

Hiroaki Kitaura, Chief Manager of Kansai Electric's Nuclear Power Division, elaborated on the project during a briefing, stating, "Given overall cost performance, plant operation, and compliance with new regulations, we consider the SRZ-1200 advanced light water reactor the most realistic option." The company has not disclosed a construction cost estimate; however, funding is expected to be sourced through bonds and loans, with no plans for equity issuance at this time.

The surveys to be conducted will assess topography, geology, and other relevant factors while also engaging with local residents to address their concerns. Kansai Electric has been evaluating options for a successor to the decommissioned Mihama No. 1 reactor since November 2010, but efforts were halted following the Fukushima incident. In 2015, the company decided to decommission both the Mihama No. 1 and No. 2 reactors.

The initiative to build a new reactor comes amid a backdrop of Japan's energy policy shifting towards nuclear energy as a means to meet climate goals and ensure energy stability. The government aims to have nuclear power play a more significant role in the national energy mix, amidst ongoing debates over safety and environmental impact.

Experts in the energy sector have provided varied perspectives on the implications of this new construction. Dr. Emily Carter, a Professor of Energy Policy at the University of Tokyo, commented, "This is a pivotal moment for Japan’s energy landscape. Successfully integrating new nuclear technology could help meet both energy demands and climate commitments. However, it is critical to prioritize public safety and transparency throughout this process."

Conversely, environmental groups remain skeptical. Kenji Yamamoto, a spokesperson for Green Future Japan, expressed concerns about the long-term ecological impacts, stating, "While we understand the need for energy security, investing in nuclear power raises significant risks that cannot be overlooked. The lessons from Fukushima should inform our approach to energy policy today."

As Japan moves forward with its nuclear ambitions, the global energy community will be closely monitoring the developments at Kansai Electric's Mihama power station. The success of this venture could pave the way for a broader revitalization of nuclear energy in Japan and potentially influence similar initiatives in other nations confronting energy security challenges. In conclusion, the future of Japan's energy policy hangs in the balance, with the potential for both economic revitalization and environmental risks necessitating careful navigation.