TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Environment Ministry (MOEN, 環境部) decisively opposed a controversial wind turbine project in Yilan County (宜蘭) on Tuesday (Sept. 2), marking a significant victory for local residents fighting against the renewable energy development. Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) declared that the ministry would neither encourage nor support the installation of 14 proposed wind turbines, emphasizing the government's commitment to stringent environmental review processes. The ministry's stance prioritizes environmental protection and residents' quality of life over energy development goals.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨), Taiwan's ruling party, legislator Chen Jun-yu (陳俊宇) orchestrated an inspection of the contentious site along the scenic coasts of Wujie Township (五結鄉) and Su'ao Township (蘇澳鎮) in Yilan County. Minister Peng emphasized that regulatory requirements mandate environmental assessments for any land-based turbines positioned within 500 meters of residential areas. Project developers remain in preliminary stages, currently gathering public opinions while having not yet submitted their formal proposal to the ministry.
Legislator Chen voiced support for sustainable energy while firmly opposing any sacrifice of residents' rights under green energy initiatives. He emphasized that the planned turbine area encompasses ecologically sensitive zones, demanding comprehensive evaluation of extreme weather risks and ecological impacts. Chen formally communicated his opposition to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部), Taiwan's economic policy body, which confirmed that local support remains essential and environmentally sensitive projects will not receive backing.
The legislator issued a direct challenge to project developers and government officials, demanding transparent communication to address mounting residents' concerns about the controversial development. Chen pledged unwavering solidarity with local communities, vowing to stand firmly against the project should it proceed without achieving broad social consensus. He reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to defending Yilan County's cherished quality of life and environmental sustainability against potentially harmful industrial development. ◼