Public trust remains a major barrier to nuclear restarts: Despite government and operator efforts, large segments of local populations remain skeptical due to Fukushima's legacy, complicating energy policy implementation.

Energy security drives nuclear renaissance amid geopolitical and economic: Japan's renewed nuclear focus responds to high fossil fuel costs and the need to ensure stable power supplies for emerging sectors like AI.

Restarting large plants tests regulatory and political balance: The voting process indicates a decentralization in decision-making, requiring local government assent that can determine national energy trajectories.