TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has signaled openness to nuclear energy as a potential power source for Taiwan’s growing AI sector.

Speaking at a gathering of the National Cultural Association of Taiwan, Lai said the government is advancing AI development plans and that nuclear energy could be considered among options to meet rising electricity demand, per UP Media.

Lai said Taiwan has made significant progress in green energy under former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文), but warned that expanding AI applications could place additional strain on the power grid. He said nuclear plants could be restarted if safety is ensured, a solution for nuclear waste is in place, and public consensus is reached.

The remarks suggest a potential shift from the DPP’s long-standing anti-nuclear stance, which led to the phaseout of nuclear power during Tsai's government and the eventual shutdown of the last reactor under Lai. Former officials and members of Tsai-aligned think tank Thinking Taiwan have expressed concern over a possible policy change.

A utility industry source said shifting global energy dynamics have prompted the government to reassess its position, per China Times. Recent Israeli strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field and subsequent Iranian retaliation targeting energy facilities in Qatar, including the Ras Laffan gas field — which shares the same reservoir as South Pars — have raised concerns about natural gas supply and prices.

Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) has also hinted at possible adjustments to Taiwan’s energy mix if nuclear power is brought back online, per UDN. The source added that although Taipower was initially skeptical of the government’s plans to restart nuclear plants, the government’s position has since become clearer as the Iran War highlighted energy supply risks.

The source said the Kuosheng Nuclear Power Plant and Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant are more likely candidates for potential reopening, while the Chinshan Nuclear Power Plant is unlikely to resume operations. No indication has been given that the Lungmen Nuclear Power Plant would be brought online.

The source added that Maanshan could resume operations as early as 2028, while Kuosheng may not return until between 2029 and 2030.

Taipower Vice President Hsu Yung-hui (許永輝) said both plants would require safety inspections lasting between 18 months and two years, per CNA. Additional upgrades could extend the timeline by three to four years if older equipment needs replacement.

Hsu added that existing fuel reserves at the plants could support operations for about 18 months, roughly matching the time needed to procure and deliver new nuclear fuel.