President Tsai Ing-wen said Nov. 11 that the government will continue promoting green energy while fostering exchanges and cooperation with technology partners around the world.
Green energy is pivotal to securing Taiwan’s position in global supply chains, Tsai said, adding that no effort is being spared in expanding its usage. Initiatives to boost renewables include the Cabinet-level National Development Council’s countrywide financing mechanism set to spur a total of NT$100 billion (US$3.5 billion) in investment in related infrastructure projects.
Tsai made the remarks during her opening address at an energy development forum organized by local media outlet Economic Daily News at Taipei International Convention Center in the capital.
According to Tsai, the launch of commercial operations at Taiwan’s first offshore wind farm in the northern county of Miaoli last year has attracted visits by experts from Japan and South Korea hoping to learn from the country’s experiences, demonstrating the country’s role as a regional leader in the green energy source.
The development is set to help Taiwan hit its offshore wind power goal of 5.7 gigawatts by 2025, Tsai said, adding that the government’s aim is to achieve an additional 10 gigawatts within the following decade.
Solar power is also developing apace, with capacity increasing from 1.25 gigawatts in 2016 to 4.89 gigawatts in August this year, the president added.
Tsai vowed no stone will be left unturned in ensuring renewables account for 20 percent of Taiwan’s total power generation by 2025.
Launched in 2013, the annual energy forum brings together academics, business representatives and officials to discuss innovative solutions addressing Taiwan’s energy challenges and future development of the potential-laden sector. (YCH-E)
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