Energy diversification is essential for Japan
Public resistance to nuclear power is a hurdle to overcome for Japan to meet its energy targets
Six years on from the Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan, the impact is still being felt in the energy sector. Of the 42 nuclear reactors in the island nation, 12 have passed safety reviews and three of those are already back in operation, at a total capacity of 2,670MW, while the other nine are being prepared to go back online. However, three out of nine units that were approved will need more time before they can go online. But two obstacles remain. Once the government has signed them off, the nuclear reactors must still get approval from local authorities—and public opposition remains strong. A recent nationwide survey found almost 60% of the public are st
Also in this section
6 February 2026
The long close relationship between key supplier Qatar and pivotal buyer Japan becomes even deeper following new landmark deal
6 February 2026
Partnerships across the LNG value chain have evolved over time, growing in both complexity and importance, according to panellists at LNG2026
6 February 2026
Nigeria's mega-refinery is still trying to solve many challenges, all while its owner talks up expansion
5 February 2026
While broadly supportive of EU efforts to tackle methane emissions, representatives of the gas industry warn it could deter supply contracting if timelines and compliance requirements are not made more pragmatic






