In a significant policy change, Japan says it will rely more on nuclear energy to fulfill the growing demand from power-hungry industries like semiconductors and artificial intelligence.
“Maximizing the use of nuclear energy” was the focus of an energy strategy that was adopted by the cabinet on Tuesday; “reducing reliance on nuclear energy” was not included.
According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry’s energy strategy, nuclear energy should supply 20% of Japan’s grid by 2040, more than doubling its 2023 contribution of 8.5%.
It occurs when the nation is still plagued by the traumatic memories of the Fukushima nuclear plant accident, which occurred fourteen years ago.
A 9.0 magnitude earthquake that struck close to Japan’s northeast coast in March 2011 caused a tsunami.
