New Environment Minister Goshi Hosono has vowed to reduce Japan's reliance on nuclear power but has said that halted reactors that pass stringent safety tests may be restarted if the nation's energy needs are not being met.

The 40-year-old Hosono, who is doubling as state minister in charge of handling the Fukushima nuclear crisis and compensation issues, added there is a need to separate discussions about short-term energy needs and long-term policy.

"I've been suspicious of the nuclear policy we have had, especially after March 11. I don't intend to allow the reactors to be restarted one after another. I'm going to step on the brakes," Hosono said during his first news conference earlier in September.