Taiwan plans to increase offshore wind energy fivefold in line with semiconductor industry demand
Key Points
- 1. Taiwan aims to increase its offshore wind energy capacity, currently at 4.9 GW, fivefold by 2039.
- 2. Due to the increasing demand of the semiconductor industry, annual electricity consumption is expected to increase by 2.5% in the 2026-2035 period.
- 3. In 2025, liquefied natural gas will provide more than 47% of electricity, making it the country's largest energy source.
- 4. Growing energy needs and dependence on imported fuels make a policy change imperative against the risks of maritime blockades that could originate from China.
By the Numbers
The Taiwan government has announced a plan to increase its offshore wind energy capacity fivefold by 2039 in order to meet the growing electricity demand of the semiconductor industry, the island's main economic driver. According to the project announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the aim is to integrate a new capacity of between 15 and 18 gigawatts (GW) into the system.
In line with the said plan, it is foreseen that the total installed capacity will reach 19.9 GW in 2035 and 27.9 GW in 2039, thus taking a significant step towards the 2050 net zero emission target. Officials state that the continuous development in the high-tech sector will cause an annual average electricity demand increase of 2.5% in the 2026-2035 period.
Taiwan's dependence on fuels imported by sea makes the island vulnerable to potential supply disruptions. Risks such as the current Middle East conflict or a possible maritime blockade that China might impose make the transition to green energy and supply security a strategic priority.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. What is the main purpose of the new energy plan announced by Taiwan?
- The plan aims to increase offshore wind energy capacity fivefold to meet the growing electricity demand of the semiconductor industry, its economic driver, and to achieve the net zero emission target by 2050.
- 2. According to the new targets, what will be Taiwan's targeted wind energy capacity in 2039?
- With the addition of 15-18 GW to the current 4.9 GW capacity, the total offshore wind energy capacity is expected to be between 24.7 and 27.9 GW in 2039.
- 3. What are the external risks that make it mandatory for Taiwan to diversify its energy supply?
- The high dependence on fuels imported by sea puts the energy supply at great risk in situations such as conflicts in the Middle East or a possible maritime blockade that China might impose against the island.
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