TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan Power Company (Taipower, 台電) expressed hopes on Sunday (Dec. 22) that the coal purchase budget would align with the reduced coal consumption targets. The Economics Committee of Taiwan's Legislative Yuan last week decided to cut NT$6 billion (approximately US$1.9 billion) from the coal-fired power budget.
Taipower noted its coal consumption this year reached 25 million tons, with plans to reduce it to 22 million tons next year, already reducing 3 million tons independently. The company emphasized the need for a surplus power supply to address fluctuating electricity demand and extreme weather challenges, suggesting a shift from a budget-driven approach.
The company clarified that the 3 million-ton reduction cited by lawmakers pertains to the Hsinta Power Plant (興達電廠) in Kaohsiung transitioning from coal to gas, with coal consumption only reaching 1.35 million tons by December 2024. Taipower stated that the 3 million-ton reduction planned for 2025 at Hsinta Power Plant is a pre-established initiative, not a new measure as legislators suggested.
The company warned that significant cuts to the coal purchase budget could impact power dispatch flexibility next year, particularly during extreme weather events or gas unit malfunctions. Despite media reports, Taipower clarified it is not seeking to overturn the decision, respecting the Legislative Yuan's budget review and decision-making authority.