TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a significant move toward a nuclear-free future, the Taiwanese government reaffirmed its commitment to phasing out nuclear power and bolstering green energy initiatives. Executive Yuan Spokesperson Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) emphasized this stance following a cabinet meeting on Thursday (May 23), highlighting the government's unwavering goal of achieving a nuclear-free homeland.
This announcement comes at a critical juncture as the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant prepares to decommission its No. 1 reactor in July, marking a pivotal moment in Taiwan's energy policy under President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) administration.
Energy Transition in Focus
In his inaugural address, President Lai proposed a second energy transition, which Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) also supports. This echoes the collective aspiration for a nuclear-free homeland.
Chen outlined the government's plans to enhance the power grid and address the electricity supply challenges in the northern part of the island, ensuring a stable power supply as part of this transition.
Legal Framework and Future Directions
Chen further stated that the decommissioning of nuclear power plants would proceed according to legal and regulatory frameworks, respecting the principles established by law regarding the potential extension of nuclear plant operations.
Amid proposals from the Kuomintang caucus to amend laws to extend the life of nuclear power plants, Chen underscored that pursuing a nuclear-free homeland and energy transition remains a top priority for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government.
This steadfast approach signifies a clear path forward in Taiwan's energy policy, balancing environmental concerns with the need for reliable and sustainable power.