Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te announced plans to restart the island’s second and third nuclear power plants, signaling a shift in energy policy amid growing concerns about power stability and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence. The decision, revealed on Saturday, March 21, 2026, comes as Taiwan navigates a complex geopolitical landscape and seeks to bolster its energy independence.
Lai stated that a formal plan for the restarts will be submitted to the Nuclear Safety Council by the end of March. The move represents a reversal of previous policies aimed at phasing out nuclear energy, a goal that proved increasingly tricky to maintain given the island’s energy demands.
The announcement has already drawn criticism from opposition parties. The People’s Party has accused Lai of backtracking on promises and demanded an apology, according to reports. Meanwhile, the Kuomintang (KMT) called for an emergency order to immediately restart the No. 3 nuclear plant, asserting that the administration’s previous anti-nuclear stance has been disproven.
A recent analysis highlighted the urgency of addressing Taiwan’s energy needs, citing the rapid development of AI and the evolving geopolitical situation as key factors driving the decision to reconsider nuclear power. The move underscores the growing recognition of nuclear energy as a potentially vital component of Taiwan’s future energy mix.
The potential restart of these plants comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the military’s handling of domestic violence cases. Recent reports have alleged a “purposeful” cover-up of abuse within the armed forces, raising questions about accountability and the protection of survivors.
The developments surrounding Taiwan’s energy policy and the allegations of a military cover-up highlight a period of significant change and challenge for the island nation.
