In a recent interview with Bloomberg News, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) expressed a more open stance toward modern nuclear energy technologies. This has raised questions among opposition party members about what they consider an inconsistent stance from the DPP regarding this policy area.

Cho told Bloomberg reporters that Taiwan is “very open” to the use of nuclear technology, especially to accommodate the growing electricity demand from Taiwan’s semiconductor industry. This sentiment represents a shift from the governing party’s previous stance on nuclear power, which it generally opposed for public safety reasons.

On Tuesday, Cho said in an interview at the Legislature that Taiwan should not be left out of global trends. Using the transition from fuel vehicles to electric vehicles as an example, he highlighted a need for rational dialogue rather than blind criticism when it comes to new technological advancements. Cho said he looks forward to how such advancements could address nuclear waste disposal and safety issues in the future.

Regarding the employees of Taiwan’s decommissioned nuclear power plants, Cho said that Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) is required to ensure that they remain on duty in a related capacity; they will also be the first resource tapped should new opportunities arise in nuclear power.