In 2025, electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) continues to lean heavily on fossil fuels, with more than 80% of electricity generated from these sources. Gas is the dominant fossil fuel, contributing to nearly half of the total electricity consumption, while coal is responsible for the other significant portion of fossil fuel usage. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources make up a modest portion, accounting for just over 15% of total electricity production. Within this sector, solar leads the clean energy efforts, constituting close to 6%. Wind power and hydropower contribute 4% and 3%, respectively, while nuclear, unfortunately, finds itself at the low end with roughly 1%. This shows the Republic of China (Taiwan) has considerable room to improve its clean energy mix.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and 能源統計專區. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Republic of China (Taiwan)?
Electricity consumption per person in the Republic of China (Taiwan) is currently at a historical high of 12,518 kWh per person, marking a slight increase over the previous year's record. This suggests a growing demand for electricity, reflecting possibly increased electrification and economic activities. However, only 1,942 kWh per person is sourced from low-carbon sources, a significant drop from the high of 2,378 kWh per person observed in 2013. This decline in clean electricity generation per capita is disappointing and highlights an urgent need for action, as low-carbon sources lag behind their past records.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, the Republic of China (Taiwan) can take a cue from numerous successful regions. Nuclear energy has been a backbone for countries like France and Slovakia, where it contributes over 65% of electricity. Incorporating more nuclear power would provide both reliable and clean energy. Additionally, increasing solar energy top-ups could mirror positive examples from North Macedonia and Nevada, which derive almost half and over 30% of their electricity from solar, respectively. Wind energy is similarly effective, as demonstrated by Denmark and states like Iowa, where it makes up more than half of their electricity generation. Emulating these successful initiatives can guide Taiwan in transitioning to a more sustainable electricity future.
History
Throughout the decades, the history of low-carbon electricity in the Republic of China (Taiwan) revolves significantly around nuclear energy. The early 1980s were marked by a substantial increase, with nuclear output consistently rising each year for a few years. However, starting from 2001, there have been recurrent declines in nuclear electricity, especially noticeable in recent years. Between 2015 to 2025, nuclear energy production saw a sharp decline almost every year, indicating a clear lack of commitment to this resource—a concerning trend given its potential as a clean energy source. Contrarily, wind energy showed a positive leap in 2024, illustrating a bright spot amidst a turbulent energy climate. Such historical fluctuations emphasize an urgent need for policy stability and investment in sustainable electricity sources.
