Taiwan Wants to Take the World by Wind: Frontrunner in Offshore Wind Power

In an era where the gusts of green energy are sweeping across the globe, Taiwan is setting its sails to capture the formidable power of the wind. With a strategic focus on offshore wind power, this island nation is not just aiming to revolutionise its energy sector but also to become a leading exporter of green electricity in the Asia-Pacific region.

Blowing Strong into the Future

Taiwan's ambitious journey into the offshore wind sector is characterized by significant investments and partnerships that are laying the foundation for a sustainable energy future. A shining example of this is the collaboration between Siemens Gamesa and the Hai Long Offshore Wind Project, which together are embarking on a 1,044 MW venture, marking Siemens Gamesa's largest offshore wind power signing in Taiwan to date. This project aims to deploy 73 SG 14-222 DD offshore wind turbines, promising to significantly bolster Taiwan's green energy capabilities.

The island's commitment to renewable energy is further evidenced by its strategic 15 GW Offshore Wind Allocation Plan for 2026-2035. This plan outlines a bold step forward, with 1.5 GW of offshore wind capacity being added each year, up from the initially proposed 1 GW. This increase translates to a total of 15 GW of new capacity over the ten-year period, surpassing the initial target of 10 GW.

Navigating Challenges

However, Taiwan's voyage into offshore wind power is not without its challenges. Legal uncertainties, particularly concerning the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process, and the arbitrary fisheries compensation scheme, highlight the complex regulatory environment that developers must navigate. Infrastructure and supply chain issues, such as limited port and vessel availability, alongside grid capacity upgrades, pose additional hurdles. Moreover, the high development costs and investment risks call for government support to bolster investor confidence.

Leading by Example

Despite these challenges, Taiwan is making tangible progress. Ørsted’s Greater Changhua 1 & 2a Offshore Wind Farm, the largest in Taiwan, is a testament to the country's capabilities in scaling up offshore wind power. With a total capacity of 900 MW, this project not only underscores Taiwan's engineering prowess but also its commitment to meeting its net-zero goals.

Global Implications and Technological Evolution

The global offshore wind industry is witnessing rapid technological advancements, with turbines now reaching the 15 MW range, nearly doubling the average output from a decade ago. Such developments are essential for enhancing the efficiency and reducing the costs of wind power. Taiwan's commitment to renewable energy, combined with its strategic geographical location, positions it as a key player in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

Taiwan's ambitious foray into offshore wind power is more than just a bid for energy independence; it's a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the Asia-Pacific region. By overcoming regulatory and logistical challenges and leveraging technological advancements, Taiwan is poised to take the world by wind. This journey is not just about generating power but about setting a global benchmark in the transition to renewable energy. As Taiwan continues to harness the winds of change, its story offers valuable insights and inspiration for countries worldwide looking to navigate the renewable energy revolution.