I have an op-ed in the 自由時報 (Liberty Times) — one of Taiwan’s largest daily newspapers — on how the island should meet its rising demand for electricity.

What is the 自由時報 (Liberty Times)?

The 自由時報 (Liberty Times) is one of Taiwan’s three major dailies and among the most widely read on the island. Publishing there means speaking directly into Taiwan’s public debate, in its own language.

The gist of the op-ed

Taiwan’s electricity demand is surging, driven in part by the rise of artificial intelligence. The government’s answer — adding four gas-fired power plants — misses the core issue: Taiwan already imports 97% of its energy, and its liquefied natural gas reserves cover only eleven to fourteen days. Betting further on gas deepens a vulnerability rather than reducing it.

Yet the island has resources beneath its own feet and off its own shores:

• Geothermal energy: an estimated potential of 10 to 32 GW, while only 7 MW are exploited today.
• Offshore wind: the Hai Long wind farm will reach 1,022 MW in 2026, producing roughly 4,500 GWh per year.

My argument is straightforward: Taiwan’s energy security depends on power generated locally — underground and at sea — rather than on fuels it will always have to import.

→ Read the op-ed in the 自由時報 (Liberty Times)

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Illustration: geothermal power in the mountains and wind turbines off the coast of Taiwan.