TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan will mark a historic shift toward its nuclear-free policy when the No. 2 reactor at the Third Nuclear Power Plant (核三廠) ceases operations on May 17, prompting concerns about potentially "dirtier and more expensive" electricity in the future. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), head of Taiwan's cabinet, offered reassurances Tuesday (April 29 ) that the island's power supply will remain secure and stable despite the transition.
Speaking to reporters before a legislative session at the Legislative Yuan (Taiwan's parliament), Premier Cho explained that newly constructed power generation units at several facilities stand ready to offset the decommissioned reactor's capacity. While acknowledging the power reserve margin will decrease by approximately 3 percentage points following the reactor's shutdown, Cho emphasized that maintaining levels above 15% would adequately support Taiwan's high-tech manufacturing sector and other domestic industries.
Referencing projections from the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部 - Taiwan's economics ministry) and Taiwan Power Company (TPC, 台電 - the state-owned utility), Cho stated that peak electricity demand will maintain safe reserve levels of 10% during daytime and 7% at night throughout 2025. The premier identified specific facilities — including new generating units at Hsinta, Senba, and Tatan power plants — that will compensate for the nuclear reactor's closure. Cho reaffirmed the government's commitment to advancing a "second energy transition" through diversified green energy development, ensuring adequate power for both traditional industries and Taiwan's growing AI technology sector. ★
