TOKYO — Japan is entering a new phase in its nuclear energy strategy, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordering Wednesday the development and construction of next-generation nuclear power plants.

This marks a major shift from the country's post-Fukushima policy of backing away from the building of new nuclear power plants. The move would help Japan reduce its reliance on energy imports amid a global energy crunch and avoid strains on a power grid that has been pushed to its limit this summer.

Kishida's government aims to secure electric power in the medium to long term with a plan to restart up to 17 nuclear power plants beginning in the summer of 2023.

The prime minister believes the plan will address structural challenges facing Japan, such as electricity shortages and decarbonization delays, especially as it aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Detailed measures and a timeline for implementation will be outlined by the government by the end of the year.

The main objective going forward from 2030 will be to consider construction of next-generation nuclear power plants. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has already compiled a draft on such plants — specifically safer, light-water reactors — with plans to start commercial operation in the 2030s.

Until now Japan has avoided building new nuclear power plants and upgrading existing facilities. If any new plants are built, they would be the first since the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami led to meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

Kishida will also seek to extend the operating period of existing nuclear power plants. Current law stipulates a 40- to 60-year operating life, after which reactors are decommissioned.