In 2024, electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) remains heavily dominated by fossil fuels, which account for over 80% of the total supply. Gas and coal contribute almost equally to this majority, comprising nearly 40% each. On the low-carbon side, clean energy accounts for about 17% of electricity generation. Among these, solar power leads with a little over 5%, followed by nuclear at slightly more than 4%. Wind and hydropower contribute less, with close to 4% and 2% respectively. It’s evident that a significant shift towards low-carbon sources is necessary to balance the current heavy reliance on fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Republic of China (Taiwan)?
Electricity consumption is slowly growing in Taiwan, with the latest numbers reaching 12,402 kWh per person in 2024, a slight increase from the previous high in 2021 at 12,354 kWh per person. This gradual growth highlights the importance of sustainable energy sources to accommodate increasing demand. Low-carbon electricity generation, however, tells a concerning story. With 2,109 kWh per person in 2024, it’s notably lower compared to the peak in 2013, falling by 269 kWh per person. This decline in clean energy output is worrying, considering the urgent need to reduce emissions and transition towards greener energy solutions.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Taiwan can look to countries like France and South Korea as examples. France relies heavily on nuclear energy, obtaining more than two-thirds of its electricity from this source, while South Korea meets nearly a third of its needs with nuclear power. Taiwan could prioritize nuclear energy due to its strong growth potential and reliability, complemented by investments in solar infrastructure—following the example of sunny regions like Spain and the United Arab Emirates. By diversifying its mix with a focus on these clean energy sources, Taiwan stands to improve its energy security and environmental outcomes significantly.
History
Considering the historical trajectory of low-carbon energy generation in Taiwan, the 1980s witnessed consistent growth in nuclear power, with substantial annual increases. However, from the early 2000s onwards, this trend faced sporadic declines. Nuclear output fell sharply in multiple years, most notably from 2015 to 2024, reflecting a declining commitment that must be reversed to ensure a sustainable future. Encouragingly, solar energy made significant strides in 2022, highlighting its potential role in Taiwan's clean energy future, along with recent increases in wind energy capacity. Consistent investment and policy support for nuclear and solar sectors will be integral to reversing recent declines and gearing towards a cleaner future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.