Pressure to restart nuclear reactors at Chubu Electric Power led workers to manipulate earthquake safety data, an independent panel reported. The utility attempted to fabricate seismic wave estimates for the Hamaoka plant, prompting the resignations of its CEO and chair. A whistleblower flagged the issue in 2021, but internal investigations were compromised.

The scandal undermines Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s goal of reviving Japan’s nuclear fleet to lower energy costs and support AI data centers, with reactor restarts now delayed. Japan aims to raise nuclear’s share from 8.5% to 20% by 2040, down from pre‑Fukushima levels. The case highlights a culture of engineers operating “under their own logic” and exposes ongoing challenges in the nation’s post‑Fukushima nuclear revival.