Japan switches on first nuclear reactor since Fukushima disaster

TOKYO — Japan switched on a nuclear reactor Tuesday on the southern island of Kyushu, marking a first, tentative return to nuclear energy after catastrophic meltdowns four years ago at the Fukushima plant.

Japan Expands, Extends Oil Storage Lease Contract With Abu Dhabi

Japan expanded and extended for three years a lease that allows Abu Dhabi to store crude oil in the Asian country.

Japan still plans Russia energy deal

TOKYO — Japan, dependent on imports for almost all its fuel, is pursuing natural gas projects and energy purchases in Russia despite new sanctions last week designed to punish Vladimir Putin and his associates.

Fukushima Fires Up Atomic Industry’s Removal-of-Liability Drive

Japan will introduce legislation this year to ratify a controversial treaty backed by General Electric Co. and other atomic-plant manufacturers seeking protection from damage claims caused by nuclear accidents.

Japan Eyes Smart Meters, Fuel Cells to Tackle Climate Change

TOKYO -- Japan plans smart meters in every residence and factory by the early 2020s and 5.3 million fuel cells in homes by 2030 to tackle climate change, according to a report to be submitted to the United Nations.

Japan halts last nuclear reactor at Ohi

Japan is shutting down its last functioning nuclear reactor, with no timetable for a restart. Reactor 4 at Ohi in western Japan will stop generating electricity in the early hours of Monday.

Japan cracks seabed 'ice gas' in dramatic leap for global energy

Japan has extracted natural "ice" gas from methane hydrates beneath the sea off its coasts in a technological coup, opening up a super-resource that could meet the country's gas needs for the next century and radically change the world's energy outlook.

Japan's LNG, oil demand to remain strong after reactor restarts

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's decision to restart two nuclear reactors idled for safety checks after the Fukushima catastrophe won't cut the country's spiraling fossil-fuel import bill unless more atomic units are brought back on line, traders and analysts said.

Japan reports record current account deficit

Japan has reported a record current account deficit because of rising energy imports, as the country's economic recovery remains fragile.

Japan Finance Minister: To Work With South Korea As "Partners" At G-20

TOKYO (Dow Jones)--Japan's finance minister said Friday he agreed with his South Korean counterpart to cooperate as "partners" in key international forums such as the Group of 20 largest industrialized and developing nations.