On February 20, the Electricity Business Federation in Japan announced the appointment of Mori Nozomu, president of Kansai Electric, as its new chairman. He takes over the position from the previous chairman, Hayashi Yoshinori, who resigned in January due to responsibility for data falsification issues concerning safety inspections of the Hamaoka Nuclear Power Plant. Mori expressed deep regret over the incidents, acknowledging the severity of the matter and its potential to undermine public confidence in the nuclear sector.

During a press conference, Mori emphasized the essential mission of restoring trust among the citizens regarding the electricity and nuclear industries. He pointed out that the responsibility lies with the leadership to ensure transparency and commitment to public safety, particularly following recent high-profile scandals that have tarnished the reputation of Japan's electricity suppliers. His remarks reflect the ongoing challenges faced by the industry in regaining credibility after numerous controversies.

Mori's presidency is seen as pivotal as Japan continues to grapple with issues surrounding nuclear energy, especially in relation to safety and public perception. The former chairman's resignation is a clear indication of the accountability required within the sector, and Mori is expected to implement measures that address these critical challenges effectively. His leadership abilities will be crucial in steering the federation towards a more trustworthy and reliable future in Japan's energy landscape.