Taiwan launches solar power and wind energy promotion office

The office, which is run by the Bureau of Energy under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, will integrate public and private resources while providing green energy solutions. It is also set to play a key role in developing new business and providing information on financing, insurance and maintenance services.

“Renewable energy is an important part of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability,” MOEA Deputy Minister Hwang Jung-chiou said. “We expect the office to help Taiwan cut carbon emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote the green energy sector.”

According to Hwang, Taiwan is perfectly suited for developing solar energy and wind power. As of January 2012, the island boasts installed solar energy capacity of 101.6 megawatts, and is expected to increase this to 3,100 megawatts by 2030.

“Plans are also in the pipeline for establishing 1,000 wind turbines with combined capacity of 4,200 megawatts over the same period of time,” he said, adding that this initiative will help create NT$500 billion (US$16.91 billion) in associated business for the renewable energy sector.

Hwang said the MOEA wants to double Taiwan’s green power capacity to 16 percent by 2020, with installed capacity reaching 6,500 megawatts by 2025, five years ahead of target.

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