Nvidia Urges Taiwan to Consider Nuclear Power Before Crucial Vote

UPDATE: Nvidia Corp. is pushing Taiwan to consider nuclear power as a critical energy source ahead of a pivotal referendum scheduled for Saturday, October 7, 2023. With soaring demand for energy due to artificial intelligence (AI) advancements, Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, stated that nuclear energy is an “excellent option” for the island.

During an impromptu briefing at an airport in Taipei, Huang emphasized the necessity of exploring all energy sources, including nuclear, solar, and wind, to meet the burgeoning energy needs driven by AI technology. “I really do hope that every form of energy will be explored,” he remarked, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Taiwan’s energy landscape is at a crucial turning point. The island closed its last nuclear power plant in May 2023, representing a significant retreat from atomic energy that has unfolded over decades. However, the upcoming referendum could change Taiwan’s energy trajectory by potentially allowing the government to reverse its anti-nuclear stance. A similar vote in 2021 resulted in the closure of another nuclear facility, solidifying the nation’s commitment to phasing out nuclear energy.

Nuclear power’s relevance is underscored by Taiwan’s geographical limitations and its vital role as a global tech manufacturing hub for major companies like Apple Inc.. Nvidia has recently announced plans to establish an AI factory in collaboration with Foxconn Technology Group. Huang noted that this new facility will be just the beginning, underscoring the necessity for a reliable energy supply to support the expansion of AI infrastructure.

The global energy landscape is shifting, with many countries increasingly turning to nuclear power as a means of decarbonizing their electrical grids. Taiwan’s current trajectory diverges from this trend, making the referendum not just a local issue but a matter of international significance.

With the vote just hours away, the implications of this decision could resonate far beyond Taiwan’s borders, impacting energy policies worldwide. The referendum presents a critical moment for Taiwan’s future energy strategy, and the outcome could determine whether nuclear power will once again play a role in the island’s energy mix.

Stay tuned as the situation develops, and be sure to follow the results of the referendum this weekend.