TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Chinese National Federation of Industries (CNFI, 工總) proposed on Monday (Oct. 7) that Taiwan's carbon fee should be slightly lower than those of key competitors Japan and South Korea. The proposal was made during the the sixth Carbon Fee Rate Review Council held by The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部).
Lin Tsai-hsiang (林才翔), a director at the federation, emphasized the need for the carbon fee design to mirror Japan and South Korea to foster industrial growth amid the adjustment of industrial electricity rates. The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) Electricity Rate Review Council decided to adjust industrial electricity rates by 14%, effective Oct. 16. Residential rates will remain unchanged.
Lin noted that even with the increase, Taiwan's industrial electricity prices remain lower than neighboring countries. He urged the government to reconsider the energy mix, highlighting nuclear power as the cleanest and most affordable option.
The federation also announced that the "Industrial Carbon Neutral Alliance" (產業碳中和聯盟) has attracted over 100 associations. The federation and the MOEA initiated this alliance in 2022.
Lin stated that the federation's 159 industry associations have invested approximately NT$82.7 billion in 19,000 carbon reduction projects, reducing 20 million tons of carbon, which accounts for 7% of Taiwan's total emissions.
Lin Der-sheng (林德生), the chief secretary of the Industrial Development Administration, noted that achieving net-zero carbon emissions has become an industry trend.
He outlined the government's efforts to aid industrial transformation through talent cultivation, expert advisory teams, and subsidies. These initiatives underscore the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within Taiwan's industrial sector.