In 2024, the Republic of China (Taiwan) continues to rely heavily on fossil fuels, with more than 80% of its electricity coming from these sources. Among these, gas and coal are almost equally prevalent, with each contributing approximately 40% to the total electricity generation. On the brighter side, low-carbon energy accounts for 17% of electricity consumption, but remains significantly lower in comparison to fossil energy. Solar energy leads the clean energy sources at roughly 5%, followed by nuclear power at about 4%, and wind at nearly 4%. Hydropower and unspecified renewables each contribute about 2% and 1% respectively. The domination of fossil fuels highlights the urgent need for Taiwan to shift its focus towards expanding green energy sources to combat climate change and reduce air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Republic of China (Taiwan)?
The nation's electricity consumption has seen modest growth, with the latest figures reaching 12,443 kWh per person, up from the previous record of 12,354 kWh per person set in 2021. Despite this marginal increase, it is concerning that low-carbon electricity generation has declined from its peak in 2013. The latest figure for low-carbon electricity generation comes in at 2,116 kWh per person, which reflects a significant decline of 262 kWh from the 2013 record. This downturn in clean energy generation underscores the importance of boosting sustainable energy sources to ensure growth keeps pace with future demands driven by electrification and technological advancements.
Suggestions
To accelerate the expansion of low-carbon electricity, Taiwan can take inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated solar, wind, and nuclear power. For nuclear energy, France is a leading example with a remarkable 68% of its electricity sourced from nuclear power, and Slovakia follows closely with 62%. Emulating these countries by investing in and expanding nuclear capabilities could dramatically increase Taiwan's clean energy portfolio. On the solar and wind front, Taiwan can look to countries like Lebanon, where solar power constitutes 31% of electricity, and Denmark, where wind power makes up 52% of electricity. Learning from these regions' successful models, Taiwan could prioritize policies and investments in solar and wind energy, harnessing its geographical advantages to transform its energy landscape.
History
Taiwan's historical journey with low-carbon energy demonstrates some positive strides but also highlights significant setbacks, particularly with nuclear power. In the 1980s and early 1990s, there was a commendable progression in nuclear electricity generation, with increases in several consecutive years. However, the turn of the century signaled a downturn, with several years experiencing declines: 2001 and again from 2015 onward saw sharp decreases. Recent years have been particularly challenging, with substantial drops in nuclear electricity in 2023 and 2024. Despite setbacks in nuclear energy, there have been positive contributions from solar and wind in recent years, notably in 2022 and 2024. It is crucial for Taiwan to address these declines by reasserting its commitment to low-carbon energy through decisive policies and expanded infrastructure to ensure a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.