Taiwan referendum on nuclear plant falls short of approval threshold

A referendum in Taiwan to restart the Maanshan nuclear power plant failed to pass after falling short of the legal threshold, Reuters reported.

The initiative, proposed by the Taiwan People’s Party and supported by the Kuomintang, aimed to secure more reliable power and reduce dependence on imports. Although 4.3 million voters backed the proposal, it did not reach the required five million votes, leaving the plant closed, according to the Central Election Commission.

The Maanshan facility was shut down in May as Taiwan shifts towards renewable energy and liquefied natural gas. Government officials have pointed to safety risks related to earthquakes and nuclear waste in justifying the closure.

President Lai Ching-te acknowledged the importance of maintaining diverse energy options. He said nuclear power may be reconsidered in the future if technologies become safer, waste management improves, and public acceptance increases.

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