What’s Happening
Taiwan’s offshore wind industry is entering a new phase: developers are planning projects in deeper waters farther from shore, where winds are stronger but construction is more complex and costly.
Key Points
- Early offshore wind farms in Taiwan were built in shallow waters less than 50 meters deep. Future sites will often exceed that depth, demanding advanced floating wind technology and higher capital investment.
- The government aims to reach 20 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2035, but escalating costs and technical challenges could slow progress.
- Industry leaders warn that greater financial support—including subsidies, grid infrastructure upgrades, and clearer permitting rules—is essential to maintain momentum and attract investors.
- Local supply chains must upgrade to produce larger turbines, deep-water foundations, and specialized vessels.
Why It Matters
- Offshore wind is central to Taiwan’s plan to phase out nuclear power and reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels.
- Developing deeper-water sites unlocks steadier wind resources and larger development areas, enabling greater long-term generation capacity.
Looking Ahead
- Policy shifts—such as higher feed-in tariffs, streamlined permitting, and government-backed financing—will likely determine whether Taiwan can meet its 2035 renewable energy targets.
Bottom Line
Taiwan’s next wave of offshore wind could deliver major clean-energy gains, but stronger state support and sustained industry innovation will be crucial for success in deeper and more challenging marine environments.