Taiwan Passes Law to Extend Nuclear Power Plant Lifespan up to 60 Years, Marking Shift in Energy Strategy

In a significant shift from its long-held anti-nuclear stance, Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan on Tuesday passed an amendment to the Nuclear Reactor Facilities Regulation Act, allowing nuclear power plants to operate for up to 60 years—extending the previous 40-year cap by an additional 20 years through license renewals.

This legislative decision signals a political and strategic pivot as the island grapples with rising energy demands, global carbon reduction pressures, and the uncertainties of renewable energy readiness. The amendment was passed with a narrow margin of 60 votes in favor (KMT and TPP) against 51 opposing votes (DPP), reflecting the deep polarization surrounding nuclear power in Taiwan.

A Turning Point for Taiwan’s Energy Policy

The amended law permits nuclear operators to apply for a one-time 20-year extension to existing 40-year licenses. Taiwan’s only operating reactor, Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant’s No.2 unit, located in Pingtung County, is scheduled to shut down on May 17, making the issue timely and politically sensitive.

While the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) remains committed to a “nuclear-free homeland,” opposition parties argue that nuclear power is essential to ensuring stable, low-carbon energy during Taiwan’s green transition.

What’s in the Amendment?

• Extended License Duration: Allows nuclear power plants to operate up to 60 years, pending regulatory approval.
• Oversight Body: The Nuclear Safety Commission (NSC), formerly the Atomic Energy Council, will oversee application reviews and set detailed safety standards.
• Safety Inspections: Operators must pass thorough safety, feasibility, and environmental inspections that align with international standards before license extensions are granted.

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💬 Government

Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei confirmed that under current regulations, Maanshan Reactor No. 2 must shut down this month. However, any extension would require 16–18 months for safety checks, system updates, and refueling.

Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee stated that the amendment is not retroactively linked to Maanshan’s shutdown and that safety remains the government’s top priority.

💬 Pro-Nuclear Advocates (KMT & TPP)

Supporters emphasized that the law provides “flexibility, not certainty” — giving Taiwan the option to extend nuclear operations if energy needs and public safety align.

They argue that energy diversification is critical, especially with ongoing delays in renewable infrastructure and fluctuations in LNG supply.

💬 Anti-Nuclear Activists

The National Nuclear Abolition Action Platform condemned the amendment, calling it a “black box operation” passed without public consultation. They warned it could reopen decommissioned reactors like Jinshan and Kuosheng in New Taipei City.

Activists are now mobilizing to recall pro-nuclear legislators and demand greater transparency.

Nuclear Energy in Taiwan: A Quick Context

• Taiwan originally planned to be nuclear-free by 2025.
• Four commercial reactors have been gradually retired since 2018.
• Maanshan’s No. 2 reactor is the last operational unit.
• Nuclear still accounts for around 9–12% of Taiwan’s power mix during peak seasons.
• Renewable energy sources, mainly solar and wind, remain intermittent and limited by land and environmental constraints.

Global Comparisons

Taiwan joins several countries that are reassessing nuclear power amid climate and energy security concerns, including:

• France: Investing in small modular reactors (SMRs).
• Japan: Restarting nuclear plants post-Fukushima.
• South Korea: Scaling nuclear alongside renewables.
• Germany: Recently phased out nuclear but faces energy shortages.

Future Outlook

While the amendment does not automatically extend plant operations, it creates a regulatory pathway for nuclear to remain in Taiwan’s energy mix beyond 2025. The decision could influence:

• Future debates on energy pricing, especially with volatile global LNG markets.
• Taiwan’s international climate commitments, where nuclear may aid carbon neutrality goals.
• Investor confidence in energy infrastructure development.

However, with no detailed regulations yet issued, it may take over a year for the policy to be operationalized. In the meantime, Taiwan Power Co. (Taipower) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs must initiate condition assessments to even begin considering extensions.

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