Onagawa Reactor Restart Signals Japan's Nuclear Resurgence

The Onagawa No. 2 nuclear reactor in Japan has restarted for the first time since the 2011 disaster, emphasizing the country's renewed focus on nuclear energy for stable power and carbon reduction. This decision forms part of a broader strategy to maximize nuclear energy usage alongside renewable sources.

In a significant step toward resurrecting nuclear energy, Japan restarted the Onagawa No. 2 reactor on Tuesday, marking its first operation since the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The move follows comprehensive safety upgrades and is part of the government's broader strategy to expand nuclear energy use.

Located 100 kilometers north of the Fukushima Daiichi plant, where reactor meltdowns caused severe radiation release, the Onagawa facility survived the tsunami with its cooling systems intact. This resilience has led to its return to operation, highlighting the area's recovery and the renewed importance of nuclear energy.

Japan is committed to increasing nuclear energy use to ensure energy stability and reduce carbon emissions. The restart of the Onagawa reactor is a major component of this strategy, aiming to balance the nation's energy needs against safety concerns heightened by recent seismic events.

(With inputs from agencies.)