TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) and New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) voiced their concerns and suggestions regarding energy mix and electricity pricing at the Executive Yuan on Thursday (May 23).
Mayor Chiang Wan-an raised concerns about the financial burden Metro Taipei faces due to electricity costs, which account for 13% of its operating expenses. He pointed out that Metro Taipei's electricity costs have surged from NT$1.8 billion to NT$2.7 billion, an increase of NT$900 million, following a price hike. Chiang urged for an expansion of subsidies to include electricity used at stations.
In response, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) stated that electricity prices are determined by a review committee, not by vote. He acknowledged the importance of reducing the cost of electricity for the public as part of social investment and promised to consider it.
Mayor Hou Yu-ih also emphasized the need for cooperation between central and local governments to progress in the national energy transition and support SMEs. He shared his discussions with Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) on energy and SME issues, highlighting that SMEs make up over 98% of all businesses and require more support for digital transformation, low carbon, and smart technologies.
Minister Kuo assured Mayor Hou of his demands and stressed that ensuring a stable power supply remains a goal for the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
The meeting underscores the critical dialogue between city leaders and national officials on energy policy and economic development. As Taiwan navigates its energy transition, the collaboration and shared goals between different levels of government signal a concerted effort to address the challenges of electricity costs and support for SMEs in the digital age.