Events

Energy

Industrial Security
2023/10/27

I. Clean Energy: Develop Green Electricity

We are committed to fostering the development of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal, as a strategic measure to mitigate the impact of international energy price fluctuations on Taiwan. Our primary objective is to ensure the stability and resilience of energy supply and safeguard energy security.

 

【Means and Approaches】:

Our plan involves conducting thorough energy and environmental baseline surveys to identify areas suitable for low land-demand energy sources like rooftop solar and geothermal. Our primary focus is on promoting urban roof-mounted solar photovoltaic systems, which not only reduce land usage but also raise public awareness. This initiative champions a decentralized energy generation, alongside traditional centralized power plants, to fortify our energy grid with resilience and flexibility while boosting the proportion of renewable energy in our portfolio.

 

II.Supply Stability: Smart Energy

【Means and Approaches】:

A. Acceleration of Modernizing Power Grid Infrastructure: The main reasons of recurrent power shortages arise from a mix of factors, notably human oversight, antiquated infrastructure, and the reliance on a centralized power grid system. Our response entails a bold initiative focused on modernizing distribution infrastructure and establishing an intelligent power grid. This comprehensive effort encompasses the development of cutting-edge energy storage systems, automation of transmission and distribution, and widespread adoption of smart meters. Furthermore, our strategy involves crafting a versatile power system that seamlessly integrates centralized and decentralized components, leveraging demand response strategies and incentivizing energy efficiency through pricing gradients. This demand-driven distribution model represents a significant step forward in fortifying the stability of our electrical power system.
B.Assisting the Transition of Industries relied on Low Energy Prices:
In 2024, Taiwan will implement a carbon pricing system, a significant step to encourage energy-efficient businesses and assist industries that have historically relied on low energy prices. To support this transformation, the government will provide guidance to businesses in several key areas:

a. Effective Energy Management: We will offer energy efficiency consultations and design services, helping companies develop energy-saving strategies and track their progress.
b. Investment in Low-Carbon Technologies: We're encouraging businesses to enhance existing product designs and production processes to improve energy efficiency and embrace low-carbon technologies.
c. Utilization of Renewable Energy: Businesses are encouraged to install renewable energy generation or energy storage facilities, contributing to the establishment of a circular economy.

 

III. A Nationwide Shared Energy Transition Benefit Model
Under the Nationwide Shared Energy Transition Benefit Model, the government will issue energy bonds and establish both central and local electricity power funds. It's important to note that forthcoming carbon fees and potential carbon taxes will be utilized with utmost transparency, dedicated to facilitating a just transition. This initiative is designed to channel public ownership to guide private investment, with a firm commitment to ensuring that a significant 50% of capital in renewable energy projects is sourced from the community. In this endeavor, priority will be given to local residents for equity participation. At the same time, those unable to invest directly will still reap benefits through government dividends, with risk shared between the government and developers. The ultimate objective is to galvanize small businesses and the public, fostering their active involvement in decentralized energy community transactions, all while ensuring that the benefits remain firmly rooted within local communities.

 

IV. Elimination of Subsidy and Imposition of Carbon Tax for Electricity Price Normalization
We are redesigning the electricity pricing calculation formula to address the significant accumulated losses of the Taiwan Power Company systematically. By eliminating subsidies for fossil fuels and incorporating carbon pricing, we aim to accurately reflect the actual costs of energy. Through the introduction of an appropriate carbon tax, we seek to level the playing field, enabling low-carbon energy sources to compete fairly with traditional energy sources.

 

A. Sustainable Land Use: Efficient Energy Storage (Low-Carbon Transition is Our Mission)
The Taiwan Power Company has outlined plans to establish 1,000 megawatts (MW) of energy storage facilities, with 160 MW to be constructed by Taiwan Power itself and the remainder opened for private-sector participation. This surge in demand is not confined to major manufacturers within the "High Electricity User Clause"; it extends to leading industries like TSMC and Foxconn, who are responding to international RE100 requirements, mandating the deployment of energy storage systems. Moreover, the impending wave of demand from electric vehicles, the development of smart grids for Taiwan's offshore islands, and other factors signify that the energy storage market value in Taiwan alone is poised to reach an impressive 159.6 billion NTD. This underscores the urgency of swiftly deploying efficient energy storage systems, not only to meet global carbon reduction targets but also to bolster national energy security, achieving the goals of net-zero carbon emissions and environmental sustainability.


B. Extending the operational life of Nuclear Plants No. 2 and No.3, conducting a prompt assessment of Nuclear Plant No. 4, and taking decisive actions on its future.
Taiwan should not hasty for green energy development due to the political agenda of phasing out the nuclear power. Maintenance of stable electricity supply is the top priority since over 96% of its energy resources are imported, rendering Taiwan susceptible to international energy market fluctuations, weather conditions, and geopolitical situation. Therefore, Dr. Ko Wen-je advocates for a thorough assessment of the possible extension of the operational life of Nuclear Plants No.2 and No.3, under the premises of scientific rigor and safety considerations. Simultaneously, he proposes a comprehensive safety reassessment for Nuclear Plant No.4, along with prudent management of nuclear waste, positioning these nuclear facilities as transitional support tools for renewable energy development. The ultimate objective remains on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with the nation's long-term economic development goals.