Taiwan advances plan for reactivating nuclear power facilities
Taiwan's lawmakers have taken a dramatic turn in their nuclear power policy, bolstering a prospective comeback for the island's atomic plants amidst growing energy requirements and escalating geopolitical pressures.
In a move that's stirring quite the buzz, the revised nuclear power bill — passed on May 13, 2025 — extends the operational lifespan of nuclear power plants from the current 40-year limit to a possible 60 years[1]. This policy overhaul is backed by the opposition parties, the Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), who believe nuclear energy should be integrated into Taiwan's energy strategy[2]. On the other hand, Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) opposed this amendment, voicing concerns over nuclear waste[2].
Energy Security: A Crucial Conundrum
While the amended law paves the way for a nuclear power renaissance, Taiwan's government is seemingly determined to maintain its goal of achieving a "nuclear-free homeland." The Ministry of Economic Affairs has announced its plans to decommission the last active nuclear reactor at the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant, scheduled for May 2025[3]. This phase-out coincides with Taiwan's efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources, aiming to reduce its reliance on coal-fired power[3].
The transition away from nuclear power, however, raises concerns about energy security. With power consumption set to surge by about 13% by the end of the decade, primarily due to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence[4], Taiwan is looking to maintain a stable power supply. One solution could be to tap into nuclear power once more[4].
The Great Gazpacho: Balancing the Scales
As Taiwan pursues energy diversity to ensure a steady power supply, it must also navigate environmental and geopolitical challenges. The government plans to incorporate gas-fired power units into the grid, enhancing its reserve capacity[3]. However, this switch also poses problems, as Taiwan is heavily reliant on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG). This dependence might be lowered if nuclear power made a return, as LNG supplies would be vulnerable in the event of heightened tensions with China, particularly a naval blockade[4].
A regional Chess Game: Nukes and China
Geopolitically, Taiwan's energy transition and nuclear phase-out are part of a broader regional context. This shift reflects Taiwan's efforts to promote energy sustainability and diversity while reducing nuclear power, aligning with global trends towards renewable energy. Strikingly, these moves also underscore internal political divisions, with pro-nuclear factions advocating policy adjustments[2].
As China keeps a close eye on Taiwan's energy policy, tensions between pro-nuclear and anti-nuclear groups within Taiwan could have far-reaching implications for the region's geopolitical landscape[2]. Despite these tensions, Taiwan's commitment to a nuclear-free status might boost its international standing on environmental issues, potentially defusing disputes related to energy dependence.
In light of Taiwan's aim to achieve energy security and reduce reliance on coal-fired power, the discussion on integrating nuclear energy back into its energy strategy has arisen, as it presents a potential solution to future power shortages caused by rising artificial intelligence consumption [4]. This potential resurgence of nuclear energy in Taiwan's energy sector could prove strategically significant, as it may help mitigate Taiwan's heavy dependence on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG), making its energy supply less vulnerable to geopolitical pressures, such as a naval blockade by China [4].
