Electricity in Republic of China (Taiwan) in 2023

In 2023, electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with over 80% of its electricity generation coming from fossil sources. Coal is the largest single contributor, accounting for about 42%, while natural gas closely follows with around 40%. Low-carbon energy represents nearly 17% of Taiwan's electricity mix, with nuclear power contributing a little over 6%. Solar and wind energy are making modest strides, providing almost 5% and slightly over 2% respectively. Hydropower also adds close to 2.5%. Meanwhile, oil and unspecified renewables combined contribute a minimal fraction, accounting for just over 2.5%.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Taiwan can look to successful models from other countries. France and Slovakia have managed to derive a substantial 65% and 62% of their electricity from nuclear power, respectively. By further developing its nuclear infrastructure, Taiwan can move toward similar figures. Denmark offers another compelling example with wind energy contributing to over half of its electricity. Uruguay and Ireland also present useful case studies, generating 35% and 32% of their electricity from wind energy respectively. Taiwan can learn from these countries by investing more in wind and solar energy, and by leveraging advanced technologies and policies that support the growth of these clean energy sources. Such diversification will help Taiwan secure a more sustainable and resilient energy future while combating climate change and reducing air pollution.

History

Taiwan's journey with low-carbon electricity generation has seen significant developments, particularly in nuclear energy, beginning notably in the early 1980s. The nation experienced a series of increases throughout the 1980s; for instance, nuclear generation went up by 3 TWh in 1982 and continued similar upward trends until a 6.2 TWh increase in 1987. The 2000s saw some fluctuations, including a notable decline in 2001 with a 3 TWh reduction, followed by a rebound of 4.1 TWh increase in 2002. However, from 2015 onwards, there were considerable declines, including a sharp drop of almost 10 TWh between 2015 and 2017. There was a brief recovery period with increases in 2018 and 2019, but subsequent declines followed in 2021 and 2022. Despite setbacks in nuclear, Taiwan has shown progress in other areas of clean energy, with significant annual increases in both solar and wind power in recent years. For instance, 2022 saw a boost of 2.7 TWh in solar, with wind energy following suit in 2023. These efforts reflect a positive trend toward a diversified low-carbon energy portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources