Xingda Power Plant explosion caused by improper installation, prosecutors say

Prosecutors from the Qiaotou District Prosecutors Office have identified improper installation procedures as the cause of the explosion at the Xingda Power Plant's new facility, which occurred on September 9, 2025.

Investigations revealed that during the installation of the GT#2-2 unit's gas pipeline, workers failed to follow standard operating procedures. Specifically, they did not replace temporary gaskets with permanent ones before the unit was officially commissioned. When the unit was activated, the high temperature caused the temporary gaskets to melt, leading to a natural gas leak that ignited the fire.

The project was a joint contract awarded in 2019 to Chung Eng Engineering Works and the Taiwan branch of GE Vernova. Following a search of the contractor's premises and the questioning of six individuals, prosecutors released three Thai nationals—two piping workers and one foreman—on 100,000 TWD bail each on suspicion of quasi-arson. The individuals are also subject to travel restrictions. The investigation into further responsibilities and the full cause of the accident is ongoing.