Japan Sets Goal to Rebuild Up to Five Nuclear Reactors by 2040s

Japan has revised its nuclear energy policy guidelines to set a target of rebuilding two to five nuclear power reactors by the 2040s. The move aims to offset a projected power‑supply shortfall as aging reactors, many operating for six decades, are decommissioned. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government will ensure investment in nuclear plants and promote programs to develop human resources. Industry Minister Ryoichi Akazawa outlined steps to lessen the burden on local governments, advance site‑selection surveys for high‑level radioactive waste, and revise disposal‑site policies.

This is the first time the government has set a specific rebuilding target since the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi triple‑meltdown. The new guidelines also note the need to reconstruct Fukushima Prefecture and decommission the damaged Fukushima plant. Projections indicate a requirement for 11‑14 additional reactors by the 2050s, with a goal to raise nuclear’s share of the electricity mix to about 20% by fiscal 2040.