Taiwan Considers Reactivating Nuclear Plants Amidst Energy Security Concerns
Taiwan is considering reactivating two nuclear power plants – the Guosheng (No. 2) and Maanshan (No. 3) – as the island nation navigates energy security challenges and increasing power demands, particularly those driven by the burgeoning artificial intelligence sector. This move marks a potential shift in policy for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which had previously committed to a “nuclear-free homeland.”
Policy Reversal and Legal Mandates
President Lai Ching-te announced on Saturday that Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) will submit a proposal to the Nuclear Safety Commission by the end of March to reactivate the two plants. This decision comes after amendments to the Nuclear Reactor Facilities Regulation Act passed by the Legislative Yuan require the government to implement the law, and after the Ministry of Economic Affairs determined that both Guosheng and Maanshan meet the conditions for reactivation. Taiwan News
Taiwan had declared itself a nuclear-free nation in May 2025 with the shutdown of the Maanshan plant, fulfilling a long-held pledge by the DPP. However, evolving circumstances are prompting a reevaluation of this policy.
Geopolitical and Economic Factors
The decision to consider restarting nuclear power is partly influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has raised concerns about global energy supply lines. Taiwan currently holds over 100 days of oil reserves, exceeding the mandated 90 days, and 12 to 14 days of natural gas reserves, slightly above the required 11 days. Taipei Times Despite this, President Lai emphasized the necessitate for a stable and diversified energy portfolio.
“The international community needs low-carbon electricity, and we must likewise consider the electricity required for computing power in the era of artificial intelligence,” Lai stated. Taipei Times
Safety Assessments and Timelines
Taipower is preparing to submit its reactivation plan to the Nuclear Safety Commission for review this month. Taiwan News The commission will assess safety issues and gauge public consensus regarding the restart. GE Aerospace and Westinghouse Electric will assist Taipower in conducting safety audits. Taipei Times
Deputy economic minister Ho Chin-tsang indicated that the Maanshan plant could potentially be operational again as early as 2028, though a timeline for the Guosheng plant has not yet been established. Taipei Times
Previous Decommissioning
The Guosheng Nuclear Power Plant was decommissioned in 2023 after its operating permit expired, and the Maanshan plant was shut down in May 2025 as part of the initial nuclear phase-out plan. Strait Times
This potential reversal highlights Taiwan’s complex energy challenges and its efforts to balance environmental concerns with economic and security needs.