Taiwan is experiencing an energy crisis. As the island completes a phaseout of nuclear power plants long the bedrock of its energy mix plans for a promised offshore wind buildup have sputtered.
All the while, industry has become more dependent on imports of liquefied natural gas. But that source is not only dirty it also leaves the island at risk of a blockade and other forms of coercion by China. In 2024, electricity rates in Taiwan hiked twice in the same year after two consecutive years of increases, reaching record levels for industrial users.
Another rate hike could be coming this year. Blackouts have become more common.