Taiwan Voters Face Critical Decision on Nuclear Power
On Saturday, voters in Taiwan will cast their ballots to determine if the island nation should restart its nuclear power capabilities. This comes as Taiwan grapples with significant energy challenges and escalating concerns about security threats from China.
Earlier this year, Taiwan shut down the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant—the last of its kind on the island. This decision followed the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s commitment to phase out nuclear energy by 2025, largely due to fears of nuclear disasters like the Fukushima incident in 2011.
Experts warn that this move leaves Taiwan vulnerable, as the island heavily depends on energy imports from countries like the U.S., Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Craig Singleton, a senior director and fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, emphasized that Taiwan’s reliance on external energy is a weakness. He stated, “Taiwan’s energy dependence is an Achilles’ heel,” highlighting that China could potentially cut off trade, significantly impacting Taiwan’s energy supply.
Currently, about 97% of Taiwan’s energy comes from imports, with fossil fuels constituting over 90% of energy use. While renewable sources account for approximately 7%, nuclear power previously supplied around 12% of the island’s needs in 2011. However, that percentage plummeted to just over 4% this year after the nuclear phase-out.
In contrast, many European nations are turning to nuclear power as a viable energy source amid climate change concerns, even as they seek to lessen their reliance on fossil fuels. For example, Germany recently abolished nuclear energy completely but does not face the same security pressures as Taiwan.
Critics of nuclear energy cite potential risks, especially given recent conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, where active nuclear plants were put in jeopardy. Experts suggest that if China were to blockade Taiwan, it could deplete oil reserves within days or weeks, making a return to nuclear power a strategic option.
Singleton argued that reintroducing nuclear capabilities could provide stability during potential coercion from China. He advised that Taiwan must diversify its energy sources to safeguard against blockades and the vulnerabilities associated with relying on a limited number of suppliers.
He pointed out Ukraine’s recent experience, stating, “Energy is one of the fastest ways to undermine a country’s will,” as Russia targeted energy infrastructure. Singleton believes China is likely analyzing these tactics closely.
As Taiwan prepares for this critical vote, the outcomes may shape its energy future and its approach to national security in a complex regional landscape.
