Taiwan committed to becoming nuclear-free

Renewable energy, although more expensive, will replace nuclear power in Taiwan.

Minister of Economic Affairs Shih Yen-hsiang said Taiwan's goal is to become a nuclear-free country and it will diversify its energy resources to achieve this aim.

"Although the goal remains distant, the government is preparing to use more costly natural gas and renewable energy sources to replace nuclear power," Shih said.

He made the statement amid criticism about the government's decision to increase electricity rates by mid-May. Rates for industrial electricity will shoot upwards by 35%, leading to fears Taiwan might lose its international competitiveness.

In response, Shih said only Taiwan relies on coal for 50% of its power generation and on nuclear energy for 30%. This contrasts with South Korea’s 20% dependence on coal and 20% on nuclear energy.