TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Nuclear Safety Commission Chairperson Chen Ming-chen (陳明真) acknowledged Thursday (Dec. 11) that the Third Nuclear Power Plant (核三廠) could restart in 2028. Chen highlighted numerous variables that affect the timeline, including Taiwan Power's (Taipower, 台電) readiness and the completeness of its assessment report. Legislators questioned the potential restart during a session of the Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament.
Chen spoke at the Legislative Yuan's Education and Culture Committee (教育及文化委員會), emphasizing that the NSC holds full responsibility for the review process. He stated the 2028 restart timeline faces uncertainties, including Taipower's preparation work and investigation report. The NSC must evaluate multiple technical and operational factors before approving any restart.
"If Taipower submits a complete review report, responds quickly to our comments, and our on-site inspections show no major issues or parts that need replacement, then a restart is certainly possible," Chen said. The NSC will conduct thorough evaluations before making any final decisions. Multiple technical assessments must be completed to ensure safety standards are met.
Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) legislator Ko Chih-en (柯志恩) inquired about the feasibility of restarting in 2028. The NSC clarified that four conditions could make the timeline feasible: a comprehensive Taipower assessment report, swift responses to review comments, satisfactory on-site inspections, and major component replacement. All four conditions must be met before the NSC can approve the restart.
"Assessing radiation's impact on the environment is the NSC's responsibility, and we will fully carry out that duty," Chen remarked. Peng urged the NSC to incorporate environmental considerations and collaborate with the Ministry of Environment on radiation impact evaluations. Chen agreed with this sentiment and pledged full cooperation.
"As for including it in an environmental assessment, the issue of radiation's environmental impact should be discussed with the Ministry of Environment," Chen stated. "By law, Taipower must request the ministry to conduct that evaluation," Chen concluded. The NSC will coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Chen reiterated that assessing radiation's environmental impact is inherently the NSC's responsibility, promising to handle all responsibilities diligently. He stated the NSC would continue discussions with the Ministry of Environment, ensuring all processes comply with legal regulations. The NSC will maintain transparency throughout the review process. ◼
