Japan to fast-track nuclear restarts to cut fuel costs
Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, plans to accelerate nuclear reactor restarts to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and curb inflation. Reactor restarts are seen as key to lowering electricity costs and securing a stable domestic supply. Trade and Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa, responsible for energy policy, stressed balancing nuclear expansion with local community support and decarbonisation goals. Japan spent 10.7 trillion yen ($71 billion) on imported LNG and coal in 2024, covering 60–70%…