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Nuclear energy

Taiwan to Vote on Restarting Nuclear Reactor in Referendum

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Taiwan is set to vote on a referendum on August 23 on whether to restart its last nuclear reactor, a move that could reverse the island's nuclear-free homeland policy adopted in 2016. The Maanshan nuclear power plant's second reactor in southern Taiwan was shut down in May under the island's nuclear phase-out plan. The Taiwan People's Party (TPP) proposed the measure, which was supported by the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT). The Central Election Commission has scheduled the vote for August 23, and both pro- and anti-nuclear energy advocates have held rallies and campaigns ahead of the vote. To pass, the referendum needs support from over 25% of Taiwan's 5 million eligible voters and more 'yes' than 'no' ballots.

Key Takeaways:

  • The referendum will ask voters if they agree to restart the Maanshan nuclear power plant's second reactor in southern Taiwan if authorities find no safety concerns.
  • Taiwan's nuclear power capacity has decreased from over 50% in the 1980s to about 6% in 2023.
  • Supporters of nuclear power argue it is crucial for an island reliant on imported fossil fuels, citing a low carbon footprint and countries like Japan and some EU members that have extended reactor lifespans.
  • Opponents warn of seismic risks, unresolved nuclear waste issues, and delays to renewable energy adoption, arguing for a gradual shift away from polluting or risky sources.
  • The Green Citizens Action Alliance estimates that a sudden shutdown of all coal plants would instantly lead to a 40% loss of power.
  • The referendum needs the support of over 25% of Taiwan's 5 million eligible voters and more 'yes' than 'no' ballots to pass.

Statistics:

  • 25%: The minimum percentage of Taiwan's 5 million eligible voters necessary to pass the referendum.
  • 5 million: The number of eligible voters in Taiwan.
  • 6%: The current percentage of Taiwan's electricity supplied by nuclear power (2023).
  • 50%: The percentage of Taiwan's electricity supplied by nuclear power in the 1980s.
  • 40%: The estimated loss of power if all coal plants were shut down instantly.
  • 4: The number of nuclear reactor plants Taiwan had, with three having been decommissioned gradually since 2018.
  • 2023: The year in which Taiwan's nuclear power capacity reached about 6%.
  • 1980s: The decade in which Taiwan's nuclear power capacity peaked at over 50%.
  • 2021: The year in which a referendum rejected restarting construction of Taiwan's fourth nuclear plant.

Sources:

  • Taiwan News, "Taiwan to hold referendum on restarting nuclear power plant"
  • The Taiwan Times, "Taiwan's nuclear phase-out plan sparks debate"
  • Green Citizens Action Alliance, "Taiwan's energy transition needs a gradual approach"

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