Electricity in Republic of China (Taiwan) in 2023/2024

From September 2023 to August 2024, electricity consumption in the Republic of China (Taiwan) has been predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, which make up almost 83% of the total use. Within this, coal and gas are nearly equal contributors, each accounting for about 40% of the electricity generation, while oil provides just over 1%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources comprise approximately 17% of the energy mix, showcasing a significant disparity. Nuclear energy is the strongest among these clean sources, contributing nearly 6% of the total electricity. Solar power and wind energy offer around 5% and almost 3% respectively, while hydropower contributes slightly more than 2%. Despite some strides in clean energy, the overwhelming reliance on fossil fuels highlights an urgent need for sustainable change.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Taiwan can draw inspiration from countries that excel in clean energy production. France’s impressive achievement with nuclear power, generating 67% of its electricity, serves as a prime example. Similarly, Slovakia and Ukraine harness nuclear energy to produce 60% and 55% of their electric supply, respectively. Taiwan can also look at Denmark's successful integration of wind power, which accounts for 61% of its electricity and consider developing this sector further, given its potential for scalability and sustainability. By investing in technologies and infrastructure for nuclear and wind power, Taiwan could significantly enhance its clean energy output and reduce its carbon footprint.

History

Historically, Taiwan saw substantial gains in nuclear electricity generation in the early 1980s, with the years 1983 and 1984 marking robust increases of 6 TWh annually. This upward trajectory continued into the late 80s and early 90s. However, the early 2000s presented a downturn with a noticeable dip in nuclear generation in 2001, followed by another decline in 2015, 2016, and 2017, raising critical considerations. More recent years have been marked by fluctuations; while 2018 saw a notable nuclear increase, subsequent years, including 2023, witnessed declines again. Concurrently, solar and wind energy have seen promising expansions, particularly with solar power gaining traction in 2022 and wind energy advancing in 2023. The pattern highlights the need for consistent and bold strategies towards nuclear and other low-carbon energies to ensure a robust, sustainable energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources