Premier Cho Jung-tai recently indicated a potential policy shift regarding nuclear energy, acknowledging energy needs driven by chipmakers and the AI industry's surging demand. He stated, 'We hope Taiwan can catch up with global trends in new nuclear technologies.' This suggests a recognition of the pressures faced in the energy sector, particularly as TSMC expands its operations, highlighting the unprecedented energy consumption that necessitates a reevaluation of Taiwan's energy strategy.
Since the 2011 Fukushima incident, nuclear energy has been a contentious issue in Taiwan. Premier Cho emphasized that before committing to nuclear energy, safety measures and nuclear waste management must gain national consensus. The need for safety assurance is paramount in overcoming the public's longstanding apprehensions regarding nuclear power and addressing the growing energy demands posed by the semiconductor industry.
TSMC is currently experiencing a significant increase in electricity costs, approximately 12.5 percent, as it pursues expansion in the face of rising demand from the chipmaking sector and AI technologies. This increase underscores the urgency for Taiwan to address its energy supply and pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
The geopolitical climate, particularly concerns over Taiwan's vulnerability to energy supply disruptions due to regional conflicts or military tensions, adds another layer to the urgency of reassessing energy strategies. The government’s strategic considerations now extend beyond just energy production to encompass national security, making the discussion around nuclear energy both timely and critical.
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