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5mo ago

Taiwan Shuts Down Its Last Nuclear Reactor Amid Rising Energy Pressures

As Taiwan ends its nuclear era, surging AI-driven energy demand and reliance on imports raise concerns over energy security and decarbonization goals.

Ma'anshan Nuclear Power Plant has operated for 40 years in a region popular with tourists and which is now dotted with wind turbines and solar panels
While nuclear only accounted for 4.2 percent of Taiwan's power supply last year, some fear Ma'anshan's closure risks an energy crunch
Solar has faced opposition from communities worried about panels occupying valuable land, while rules requiring locally made parts in wind turbines have slowed their deployment
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Overview

  • Taiwan’s last nuclear reactor at Maanshan will be decommissioned on May 17–18, marking the end of its civilian nuclear program after 40 years.
  • The closure comes despite a new law allowing nuclear reactors to apply for extended operating licences beyond the 40-year limit.
  • Energy demand on the island is projected to rise by 12–13% by 2030, driven by the booming semiconductor and AI industries, with TSMC alone expected to consume a quarter of Taiwan’s electricity by then.
  • Renewable energy accounted for only 11.6% of Taiwan’s power in 2024, far short of the government’s 20% target for 2025, raising questions about how the island will meet its net-zero by 2050 goal.
  • Reliance on imported LNG and coal, coupled with limited reserves and geopolitical risks, has heightened concerns over Taiwan’s energy security and vulnerability to potential Chinese blockades.