Taiwan Energy Plan Trying To Balance Nuclear Power With Tech Demands

Earth with blue and red electric energy surrounding.

Quick Takes

Taiwan has revised its nuclear power legislation, allowing plants to extend operational licenses by 20 years.
The decision indicates a strategic shift to meet growing energy demands amid geopolitical tensions.
Nuclear power is viewed as a path to reduce Taiwan’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.
While legislative changes permit nuclear restarts, thorough safety evaluations may take over three and a half years.

Taiwan’s Legislative Shift in Nuclear Power

Taiwanese lawmakers have amended a nuclear power bill, signaling a potential restart of atomic plants. This policy shift is largely driven by increasing energy demand and geopolitical pressures. Taiwan had been phasing out nuclear power but is now considering it as a reliable option to feed its chips and AI sectors. The newly amended law now permits nuclear plants to renew their licenses for up to 20 years at a time, indicating flexibility as Taiwan adjusts its energy strategy.

The bill aligns with a global trend towards low-carbon nuclear energy as a solution to energy security. Despite the scheduled shutdown of Taiwan’s reactors, this legislative change opens doors for future restarts. Moreover, Taiwan’s Premier, Cho Jung-tai, affirmed the cabinet’s lack of opposition to bringing back decommissioned reactors, provided safety reviews are conducted, emphasizing the importance of safely transitioning to this new energy approach.

Implications for Energy Security and Independence

Taiwan’s energy security is critical, with its heavy dependence on imported liquefied natural gas. In the face of geopolitical tensions, reducing dependence on imports through revived nuclear power is a strategic move. Usage of nuclear energy is anticipated to curb reliance on foreign resources and stabilize the energy market at home. Amid China’s growing influence, Taiwan’s decision demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding its energy future while balancing industrial and geopolitical pressures.

According to Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu, “The amended law allows nuclear plants—previously capped at 40 years of operation—to renew licenses for up to 20 years at a time, either before or after expiration, according to Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu.”

As power consumption is projected to grow by 13% by the end of the decade, the nuclear option is seen as a method to keep up with industrial demands, most notably from the chip industry. Taiwan’s revised nuclear policy indicates recognition of long-term energy sustainability as a critical factor for economic stability.

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Challenges in Balancing Energy Needs and Safety

Despite policy improvements, the road to nuclear restarts introduces challenges in aligning energy requirements with stringent safety standards. Comprehensive safety evaluations are mandatory before any operational restarts, with reviews set to last at least 3.5 years. The complexity of harmonizing energy demands with technical evaluations demands a meticulous approach in pursuing nuclear energy solutions.

Premier Cho Jung-tai said his cabinet wouldn’t oppose restarting decommissioned reactors if the law passes, but safety reviews—estimated at 3.5 years by state-owned Taipower—would delay any restarts.

Despite legislative changes, Taiwan’s last reactor is scheduled for closure. This reaffirms the government’s cautious stance, ensuring nuclear restarts do not compromise public safety or operational integrity. Taiwan’s strategic energy plans reflect a long-term vision to secure energy independence while respecting safety and public confidence.