The governor of Hokkaido, Japan has given consent for restarting the Tomari Nuclear Power Plant. This breakthrough news comes after lengthy bureaucratic procedures and debates on the future of energy policy in the region. The governor's approval is seen as an essential step in Japan's drive towards its energy transition plan.

Post-Fukushima, Japan has been very cautious about its nuclear policy. Citizens are worried about safety measures and their efficacy while also recognizing the need for energy. While renewable energy is the ultimate goal, it cannot realistically cover the entire demand at present. Residents are likely to respond with a mix of relief, due to meeting energy demands, and concern for potential safety risks.

In the US and EU, similar issues would likely generate a considerable amount of controversy. Nuclear energy is a delicate topic due to incidents like Fukushima and Chernobyl, prompting some countries to either shut down their nuclear plants or invest in more rigorous safety measures. While energy requirements necessitate the occasional restart of plants, it's generally met with opposition from various environmental and safety advocacy groups.