Japan proposes rebuilding ageing nuclear plants to meet power demand

TOKYO — Japan’s government is calling for the replacement of up to 14 aging nuclear reactors by the 2050s as part of a broader effort to strengthen long-term energy security and meet rising electricity demand, according to a policy proposal released Friday by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

The draft plan, presented during a meeting on nuclear policy, said Japan will need to rebuild between two and five reactors by the 2040s and as many as 11 to 14 by the 2050s to ensure a stable power supply. The proposed new capacity would total around 16 gigawatts, METI said.

The shift reflects Japan’s growing reliance on nuclear energy as the country seeks to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and manage increasing electricity consumption, particularly from energy-intensive sectors such as artificial intelligence and data centers.

Japan shut down all 54 of its commercial nuclear reactors following the 2011 Fukushima disaster, which triggered widespread public concern over nuclear safety. Of the 33 reactors that remain technically operable, 15 have since been restarted under stricter safety standards.

In recent years, Tokyo has revised its energy policy to expand the role of nuclear power. However, many existing reactors are approaching or have exceeded their 60-year operational lifespans, raising concerns about a potential decline in nuclear capacity even as idled units gradually return to service.

By setting clearer replacement targets, the government aims to provide greater predictability for utilities and encourage long-term investment in new nuclear infrastructure, according to the draft.

The policy push also comes amid expectations of rising electricity demand driven by digital infrastructure, including artificial intelligence systems and cloud computing facilities.

Under Japan’s current energy strategy, nuclear power is expected to account for about 20% of the country’s electricity mix by fiscal 2040. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has supported expanding nuclear energy to help reduce reliance on imported coal, natural gas, and oil, which currently supply the majority of Japan’s power generation.

Despite these plans, public confidence in nuclear energy remains fragile in Japan, following lingering safety concerns and past industry controversies, including reported falsification of seismic risk assessments at the Hamaoka nuclear plant.

— Reporting by Chang-Ran Kim; Editing by Sonali Paul/Reuters