The Referendum in Taiwan on Nuclear Energy Did Not Pass

• The referendum on nuclear energy did not reach the required number of votes
• 4.3 million voted in favor of resuming electricity generation
• The government emphasized the importance of nuclear energy safety

This is reported by The Yomiuri Shimbun, The Yomiuri Shimbun.

The referendum on resuming the operation of Taiwan's last nuclear power plant did not gather the necessary number of votes to be recognized as valid. This voting, which took place on August 23, 2025, was supported by opposition parties, but there were not enough votes for approval.

The voting concerned the electricity generation of the Maanshan plant, which was shut down in May 2025 as part of the government's transition to renewable energy. The issue of the referendum focused on whether the existing nuclear power plant should resume operations, which would be confirmed if there were no safety concerns.

According to the data from the Central Election Commission, about 4.3 million votes were cast in favor of resuming operations, which is significantly higher than the 1.5 million who voted against. However, to pass the referendum, 25% of the total registered voters, which amounts to approximately 5 million, was needed.

The government of Taiwan emphasized the importance of nuclear energy safety in the seismic region and the problems with waste disposal. President Lai Ching-te noted that, regardless of the failure of the referendum, he understands public expectations regarding different energy sources.

On the same day, voting took place on the withdrawal of seven legislators from the Gimin Party, which also did not pass. This is already the second failure in attempts to withdraw legislation that, according to activists, was mostly aimed at China.

Tags: Politics/Energy