Taiwan is on the brink of a significant energy shift with Lai Ching-te set to become its new president on May 20th. One of his main goals is to increase the proportion of renewable electricity production to 30% by 2030, a huge leap from the current 11%. Additionally, he aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. However, there are doubts among some individuals about his ability to fulfill these promises, particularly in the face of ongoing blackouts that have been plaguing the island.
Tsai Ing-wen, who assumed office in 2016, had also promised to reduce carbon emissions and phase out nuclear energy. Today, nuclear energy makes up less than 7% of electricity generation in Taiwan. However, despite this decision being ideologically sound, it has proven challenging in practice. Liang Chi-yuan from Taiwan’s National Central University estimates that only a quarter of planned wind power projects were on schedule between 2017 and 2022.
The challenges facing Taiwan are not just limited to its energy mix but also its reliance on advanced semiconductors for global trade. The country is known as one of the largest producers of advanced semiconductors and faces pressure to ensure a stable and sustainable energy future amidst these challenges.
As such, Taiwan will need to address its energy infrastructure and policies to ensure a successful transition towards renewable energy sources while avoiding an energy crunch. With ambitious goals on the horizon and ongoing challenges facing the country’s energy sector, it remains to be seen whether Lai will be able to deliver on his promises or if Tsai’s legacy will continue to shape Taiwan’s approach towards sustainable development.
