Taiwan’s AI Boom Sparks Debate Over Phasing Out Nuclear Power

As Taiwan prepares to shut its last nuclear reactor amid soaring power demand driven by the AI and semiconductor boom, a debate has reignited over the role of nuclear energy. Taiwan’s electricity demand is projected to rise 12–13% by 2030, mainly due to TSMC’s high energy use. While the government aims for net-zero by 2050 through renewables, critics argue renewables are unstable and nuclear is essential. A recent law now allows extensions of reactor operations. However, safety, cost, and environmental concerns persist, with opponents stressing the risks of nuclear energy and advocating for tech giants like TSMC to fund green solutions.