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Initiative promotes energy self-sufficiency
 Jan. 2, 2026 10:50
Solar panels on rooftops. (Taichung City Government photo)
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Economic Affairs has provided a subsidy of NT$25 million (US$800,000) to launch a community rooftop solar program, as part of an initiative to promote green energy for businesses.
Installing rooftop solar can also improve insulation and waterproofing for aging buildings. The ministry said the facilities can generate sufficient electricity to meet community needs, with revenue from power sales reinvested locally, per CNA.
In Penghu’s Huxi Township, the ministry and National Penghu University of Science and Technology supported the installation of three solar power facilities with a combined capacity of 62.3 kilowatts, which was completed last year. The township faces challenges, including climate impacts on farming, population loss, and an aging population. The ministry hopes revenue from the program will help fund meal services and health education for seniors.
Penghu’s green energy generation also includes 14 wind turbines. Combined with community solar facilities covering more than 50 hectares, the county aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2035.
The Energy Administration said that program requirements — including land use, site selection, community funding, and revenue sharing — have slowed applications. To speed up community solar projects, the agency has lowered minimum installation thresholds and introduced new incentives.
The administration reported that 40 applications have been approved, 76 communities were assisted last year, and five projects are producing electricity.
Beyond rooftops, which account for roughly 64% of Taiwan’s solar power generation, the country has installed floating solar panels on several reservoirs, with regular water quality inspections and proper cleaning to ensure safety.
The government is also partnering with aquaculture farms to install solar panels above fish ponds, generating electricity while providing shade and wind protection. The projects are concentrated in coastal areas such as Tainan, Changhua, and Yunlin.
As of August 2025, Taiwan’s total solar power capacity reached 15.01 GW, an 11-fold increase since 2016. The government aims to raise the country’s solar capacity to 20 GW by the end of this year and 31.2 GW by 2030.
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Taiwan News, Staff Writer

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