Over the past 12 months, from August 2025 to July 2026, the electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) has been heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than four-fifths being sourced from them. Specifically, gas and coal together account for a significant portion, more than half and almost a third of the electricity mix, respectively. Clean energy sources, although integral to sustainable development, are less prominent, supplying only a small fraction of the total electricity, slightly over 14%. Solar energy contributes over 6% and wind accounts for more than 4%; hydropower makes up close to 3% of the electricity consumed during this period. It's vital for Taiwan to enhance its green electricity mix to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which help perpetuate climate change and air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Republic of China (Taiwan)?

Taiwan's overall electricity consumption has shown a modest increase, reaching 12,612 kWh per person in 2026, up by 94 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2025. While this increase is modest, it represents a step towards meeting the growing demand for electricity. However, the picture is less positive for low-carbon electricity. The latest low-carbon generation has dropped significantly compared to earlier years, with 2026 generating 1,820 kWh per person compared to the 2013 record of 2,378 kWh per person—a decline of 558 kWh. Such stagnation in clean electricity growth is disappointing, highlighting the need for strengthening Taiwan's green energy strategy to maintain a robust and sustainable power generation profile.

Suggestions

Taiwan can look towards successful regions for inspiration in increasing low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through solar and nuclear energy. France and Slovakia are notable examples of countries deriving a majority of their electricity from nuclear power, with around two-thirds of their electricity coming from this source. Given Taiwan's urban landscape and available technology, embracing nuclear energy similarly could prove beneficial. Concurrently, expanding solar power generation, inspired by states like California and countries such as Lebanon, which each derive over 30% of their electricity from solar energy, could significantly boost Taiwan's clean electricity portfolio. By leveraging these insights, Taiwan could foster a balanced green energy transition that catalyzes both economic growth and environmental stewardship.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Taiwan reveals fluctuating trends over the decades, notably marked by changes in nuclear energy production. During the 1980s and early 1990s, nuclear power output increased significantly, boosting its contribution to electricity generation. However, this progress faced setbacks in the early 2000s and especially the 2010s, with several years showing notable declines in nuclear output. From 2015 onwards, nuclear generation repeatedly decreased, and by 2025 it had dropped to considerable lows. These declines underscore a historical underutilization of nuclear potential, calling for renewed commitment to nuclear expansions accompanied by wind energy developments, such as those seen in 2024. With the right strategies, Taiwan could efficiently harness nuclear alongside other clean sources to secure a sustainable and future-ready electricity grid.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Aug 2025 – Jul 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.