Taipower's renewable energy

Q1. When did Taipower enter its first foray into renewables and what was behind the decision to invest in renewables?

A1. As Taiwan is seriously in short of indigenous energy resources, more than 98% of its energy depends on importation. For the purposes of reducing greenhouse gas emission and securing energy supply partly, a conclusion to set the target for renewable energy at 10-11% of power generation was reached in the 2^nd National Energy Conference held in 2005. Based on this figure, the government has formulated various targets for different renewable energy development programs. Taking into consideration the maturity of technologies and the cost of renewable energy, Taipower is focusing on the development of wind power and solar energy currently. In addition, Taipower also purchases renewable power from private generators.

Q2. Why has Taipower not ventured into the use of solar energy, and are there any plans to use solar power in the near future?

A2. According to the government energy policy, the photovoltaic capacity in Taiwan shall reach 21MW in 2010. Taipower's first-phase of photovoltaic project plans to install 10MW capacity from 2008 to 2011.