In the period from July 2024 to June 2025, electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) heavily relies on fossil fuels, which make up more than four-fifths of the total electricity generated. Among fossil fuels, gas is the most significant contributor, providing almost half of the electricity, followed closely by coal, which accounts for over a third. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources represent only about one-sixth of the total. Among these clean options, solar contributes slightly more than one-twentieth, while wind power slightly eclipses this with a slightly lesser contribution. Hydropower and nuclear also carve out smaller shares, providing close to a twentieth combined, while unspecified renewables and oil make up negligible portions of electricity generation. This reliance on fossil fuels presents challenges in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the sustainability of Taiwan's energy mix.
Is Electricity Growing in Republic of China (Taiwan)?
The stagnation in Taiwan's electricity consumption is evident, with recent numbers reflecting a minute decrease from previous benchmarks. In 2025, electricity consumption per person was recorded at a substantial 12,442 kWh, which is essentially unchanged from the 2024 record of 12,443 kWh per person. Worryingly, the share of low-carbon electricity production has not demonstrated an encouraging trend. 2025 saw low-carbon electricity generation amount to 2,025 kWh per person, a drop of 353 kWh from the 2013 record. Such figures underscore the urgent need for Taiwan to amplify its commitment to low-carbon solutions, ensuring robust growth in this pivotal sector to align with global decarbonization commitments and local environmental goals.
Suggestions
To revitalize its low-carbon electricity generation, Taiwan can draw lessons from several regions that have developed robust clean energy portfolios. Nations like France and Slovakia exhibit an impressive domination of nuclear energy, covering over half of their electricity needs and providing a stable and significant baseline of low-carbon electricity. Taiwan could bolster its nuclear efforts to mirror such successes. Additionally, leveraging the abundant solar potential, much like the United Arab Emirates and Greece, who are achieving significant solar proportions, could provide Taiwan with an abundant and sustainable energy source. The integration of these energy types could fortify Taiwan's grid, making it less dependent on fossil fuels and more resilient to future energy challenges.
History
Historically, Taiwan's low-carbon electricity generation, particularly from nuclear sources, has witnessed fluctuating dynamics. In the early 1980s, Taiwan embraced nuclear expansion, experiencing consistent growth with notable increments, such as 6 TWh in both 1983 and 1987. However, the turn of the century saw some setbacks, with declines in nuclear output beginning in 2001 and recurring sporadically. Disconcertingly, downward trends have intensified in recent years, with significant reductions in years like 2017 and a continuation of this trend through 2025, presenting a concerning narrative for the energy sector. Fortunately, a positive development in wind energy emerged in 2024, providing a promising avenue for future expansion. Despite historical challenges, Taiwan stands poised to champion a greener electricity future by amplifying solar and nuclear investments, drawing inspiration from regions exhibiting remarkable strides in low-carbon electricity adoption.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.