Overview
- Hanazumi’s consent covers Units 6 and 7, with Unit 6 prioritized after completing post–fuel-loading checks in October.
- The prefectural assembly convenes Dec. 2 to consider endorsement, and the governor’s supporters hold a majority.
- Japan’s industry minister says restarting Unit 6 could improve the Tokyo area’s supply-demand balance by about 2 percent.
- A recent Niigata poll showed 50 percent support and 47 percent opposition to a restart, with nearly 70 percent concerned about TEPCO’s operation despite new safeguards like a 15‑metre tsunami wall and elevated backup power.
- Analysts at Kpler say LNG imports could fall by about 4 million tons next year if Unit 6 starts in early 2026, while TEPCO shares slipped 1.9 percent after regulators flagged mishandled documents.