Nuclear energy discussion aired on television for the fourth time

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2025 August 30 . 1:34 PM

2 min read

Nuclear energy discussion aired on television for the fourth time

In the heart of Asia, the issue of nuclear energy has become a contentious topic in Taiwan, particularly regarding the Ma-anshan Nuclear Power Plant. The arguments for and against the plant's restart centre around energy security, climate goals, local safety risks, and economic impacts.

Proponents of the plant's restart argue that it serves as a stable, low-carbon energy source, providing a much-needed alternative to Taiwan's heavy reliance on imported natural gas and coal. They claim that nuclear energy offers energy resilience and reliability amid rising electricity demands, especially in light of the national security risks posed by China. The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) cites the inclusion of nuclear power in the EU’s sustainability strategy and Japan’s reactor restarts as precedents supporting the decision.

On the other hand, opponents of the plant's restart emphasise the potential catastrophic consequences of an accident. They fear that a nuclear incident could devastate local industries such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, particularly in Pingtung County. Residents have borne four decades of risk while hosting the plant, and now face a rushed referendum decision, raising concerns about the safety of the plant and the wisdom of relying on public opinion rather than expert advice.

The debate also highlights the long-term viability and safety of nuclear power. Critics point to a global trend of nuclear reactor retirements and a decline in nuclear’s share of global electricity generation, questioning the sustainability of nuclear energy in the long run.

Huang, a prominent figure in the nuclear debate, claims that deep borehole disposal (DBD) is a turning point for nuclear policy, offering a safe and feasible solution for Taiwan's small land area, dense population, and plate tectonics. He also mentioned the Ministry of Economic Affairs has engaged with nuclear disposal facilities in Europe for assistance.

Conversely, the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant disaster and its ongoing impact are not forgotten. Wu, another key figure in the debate, cited the Ma-anshan reactors' proximity to a fault and noted that geological knowledge was less advanced when the plant was first built. At least 300 young people have developed thyroid cancer as a result of the Fukushima disaster, and 14 years after the disaster, 24,000 residents still cannot return home due to radiation concerns.

In summary, the debate weighs energy security and climate goals against local safety risks and economic impacts in case of accidents, with political dynamics also influencing public opinion and referendum framing. The decision to restart the Ma-anshan Nuclear Power Plant is a complex issue, with arguments on both sides highlighting the need for careful consideration and expert analysis. A resident of Fukushima, in a poignant letter, reminded us that the consequences of a nuclear accident can have repercussions for up to a century.