Taiwan's Legislative Yuan Paves the Way for Potential Nuclear Plant Lifespan Extension

Legislative Action Opens Door for Longer Operation of Nuclear Facilities Amidst Energy Strategy Debate

Taipei, May 13 – Taiwan's Legislative Yuan has recently approved an amendment to the Nuclear Reactor Facilities Regulation Act. This significant move allows nuclear power plant operators to apply for a 20-year license renewal, extending operational possibilities beyond the existing 40-year limit. This could potentially lead to plants operating for up to 60 years.

The revision, initiated by lawmakers from the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), is part of a broader effort to reconsider nuclear power's role in Taiwan's energy strategy.

The vote saw the KMT and TPP successfully push the amendment through with 60 votes, overcoming the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) 51 opposing votes. The implications of this decision are substantial as the nation navigates its energy future.

If granted, the renewed operating licenses will be valid for up to two decades from their effective date. The "competent authority," now the Nuclear Safety Commission (NSC), will be responsible for setting the application procedures, required documentation, and rigorous safety review standards.

The DPP expressed concerns over the management of nuclear waste, while the KMT and TPP emphasized that the changes provide flexibility without mandating immediate extensions. The debate highlights the complex interplay between energy needs and environmental considerations.

With the No. 2 Maanshan reactor’s license expiring soon, Taiwan was anticipating becoming a "nuclear-free homeland". Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) has stated that the No. 2 reactor at the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant in Pingtung County is due to go offline shortly. Extending its lifespan and refueling, however, would require a considerable timeframe.

The National Nuclear Abolition Action Platform voiced strong opposition to the amendment, fearing the potential restart of decommissioned reactors, including those at the Jinshan and Kuosheng plants in New Taipei. They criticized the legislative process and called for public action.

In response, the NSC clarified that any continued operation post-license expiry would require a thorough assessment by Taiwan Power Co., the operator, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the supervisor. This assessment must meet all legal and international safety standards. They will evaluate safety, feasibility, and effectiveness before considering any license renewal.

The NSC also stated that it will review the impact of the amendment and ensure continuous safety oversight.

Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) clarified that the amendment is separate from the decommissioning of the Maanshan plant's No.2 reactor, the only operational reactor at present. She stressed the importance of public safety and mentioned that further safety evaluations would be conducted if an extension is considered. Detailed regulations, however, have yet to be finalized.