Two generator units could begin commercial operations in 2011 and 2012, respectively
– By Linton Levy –
Additional funding of over NT$40 billion (US$1.15 billion) would be needed to complete construction of the nation's fourth nuclear power plant, Taiwan Power Co. (Taipower) said Monday.
Taipower Chairman Chen Kuei-ming said at a legislative session that it would take an extra NT$40-NT$50 billion before the plant in Taipei County could get to a stage where its two generator units could begin commercial operations in 2011 and 2012, respectively.
The additional NT$40-NT$50 billion in funding would bring the cost of the plant's construction to NT$270-NT$280 billion, according to Chen.
Also speaking at the session, Minister of Economic Affairs Yiin Chi-ming said it is unlikely that the fourth nuclear power plant will be completed this year as scheduled.
"It would probably take two more years," he added.
Taiwan currently has three nuclear power plants in operation, two of which are located in Taipei County and one in Pingtung County in southern Taiwan.