Taipower: Procurement for Maanshan Nuclear Plant's Indoor Dry Storage Complies with Regulations

(CNA, Taipei, May 17) In response to media allegations that the procurement for the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant's indoor dry storage was awarded in just four days, Taipower stated today that the procurement case underwent three public review periods to solicit manufacturer opinions starting in 2023, and a second public tender was held in December last year. During this time, the Public Construction Commission was consulted to confirm compliance with relevant regulations. A selection committee meeting was held on May 12 this year, refuting claims of a rushed 4-day decision. Media reported that the 'Maanshan Dry Storage Case' (procurement for the indoor dry storage facility for spent nuclear fuel at Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant), with a total budget of NT$13.7 billion, was awarded by Taipower in just four days, and that the winning bidder had three major procedural flaws. Taipower explained in a press release today that the procurement case underwent three public review periods to solicit manufacturer opinions on July 10, 2023, February 21, 2025, and August 4, 2025. The first public tender was held in September last year but failed due to an insufficient number of bidders. Taipower stated that, following procurement procedures, a second public tender was held in December last year. After several reviews by the bid evaluation working group, it was confirmed that the bidding manufacturer met the relevant qualifications and specifications. During this period, the Public Construction Commission was also consulted to confirm that the company's responsible person's signature complied with regulations. Taipower held a selection committee meeting on May 12 this year, denying any rush to award the contract in four days or non-compliance with regulations. Taipower pointed out that the procurement case was reviewed and selected by a committee of internal and external experts. Taipower emphasized that given the indoor dry storage is a crucial national facility and the procurement amount is substantial, the company has invited prosecution, police, and anti-corruption agencies to jointly establish a procurement integrity platform. Taipower will continue to handle the procurement case transparently and fairly, adhering to the provisions of the Government Procurement Act. (Editor: Su Chih-tsung) 1150517