TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan has taken a step toward restarting nuclear power as officials weigh energy security risks linked to geopolitical tensions, Nikkei Asia reported Saturday.
State-owned Taipower submitted a plan on Friday to restart Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant in Pingtung County, which shut down last year. The proposal begins a review process that could take up to two years.
Inspections will be carried out with equipment suppliers including US-based Westinghouse. Any restart will require approval from the Nuclear Safety Commission and a final decision by the government.
Taiwan plays a critical role in global semiconductor supply chains, producing about 70% of contract chips. Stable electricity supply is seen as essential to supporting AI and advanced manufacturing.
President Lai Ching-te’s (賴清德) administration has not taken a firm stance on restarting reactors. Officials say any decision will depend on safety, nuclear waste handling, and public consensus.
Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) said a restart could come as early as 2028 if preparations proceed smoothly. Local media have also pointed to 2028 as the earliest possible timeline.
Taiwan phased out nuclear power after the 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan. The DPP adopted a nuclear-free policy in 2016, gradually shutting down all six reactors.
But the opposition-controlled legislature has pushed to reverse course. Lawmakers passed a measure last year establishing procedures for potential restarts.
Public opinion has also shifted. A referendum on restarting Maanshan failed last year due to low turnout, but votes in favor outnumbered those against.
Energy risks have intensified as tensions in the Middle East threaten supply routes. About one-third of Taiwan’s liquefied natural gas imports come from Qatar, raising concerns about disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
China’s military pressure around Taiwan has added to worries about energy security. LNG is difficult to store long-term, making supplies vulnerable if shipping routes are disrupted.
