Typhoon Danas wrecks 130,000 solar panels in southern Taiwan

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Typhoon Danas has wreaked havoc on Taiwan's renewable energy infrastructure, damaging more than 130,000 photovoltaic panels at solar power installations across Chiayi and Tainan counties in the island's southwest region. Environmental Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) revealed Tuesday (July 15) that the extensive cleanup operation would likely extend beyond a month. The damaged solar equipment presents significant logistical challenges for local authorities tasked with proper disposal and environmental protection.

The minister detailed emergency measures already underway, reporting that officials in Chiayi County have secured temporary storage facilities for the damaged panels and are poised to finalize contractual arrangements with specialized disposal companies by Wednesday. Peng expressed confidence in the rapid progression of the cleanup effort, projecting that waste removal operations would be completed within 48 to 72 hours after the formal agreements take effect.

The minister detailed emergency measures already underway, reporting that officials in Chiayi County have secured temporary storage facilities for the damaged panels. Local authorities are poised to finalize contractual arrangements with specialized disposal companies by Wednesday. Peng expressed confidence in the rapid progression of the cleanup effort, projecting that waste removal operations would be completed within 48 to 72 hours after the formal agreements take effect.

Peng highlighted the significant resource recovery potential of the damaged equipment, noting that valuable metals including copper and silver can be extracted from the photovoltaic panels through proper processing. The comprehensive dismantling and recycling operations will require more than four weeks to complete due to the technical complexity involved. The environmental minister issued a stern caution to commercial operators, emphasizing that abandoned solar panels are classified as general industrial waste under Taiwanese regulations and illegal roadside dumping would trigger enforcement actions.

Officials reported more positive developments in neighboring Pingtung County, where private companies have successfully retrieved floating solar system components dispersed by the powerful storm. Cleanup operations concluded this past Sunday, ahead of schedule. Taiwan's Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部), the government agency responsible for environmental protection and resource management, has announced plans to implement additional verification procedures to ensure complete restoration of affected areas. ◼