TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) declared "Energy security is national security" at Taiwan Power Company's (Taipower, 台電) 80th-anniversary celebration on Thursday (April 30). Lai tasked the state-run utility with strengthening critical regional power grid resilience by 2028 to address extreme weather challenges. The president also outlined the government's commitment to a second energy transition focusing on green energy, conservation, and smart storage.
"Electricity is the foundation of national strength," Lai said, stressing the importance of adapting to growing power demand driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and semiconductors. He detailed the government's focus on diverse green energy sources, deep energy conservation measures, and smart energy storage systems as the three pillars of this transition.
The president called for continuous improvements to Taipower's distribution system as part of the grid resilience initiative. Lai also assured that the government would refine Taipower's professionalism and employee welfare, emphasizing workplace safety and enhanced public service quality. He expressed his aim to solidify the company's status as a vital asset to Taiwan.
During his speech, Lai highlighted the vitality and youthful spirit of Taiwan Power Company, noting the employees' average age is just 42. He praised the company's 80th-anniversary video and dance performance for showcasing "everlasting vitality." Lai emphasized the employees' dedication to overcoming geographical challenges to power the nation's hopes.
Lai also joked with Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions (統一獅) head coach Lin Yueh-ping (林岳平) during the event. "Now that you've come to Taipower and gained strength, the Uni-Lions should have no reason not to win the championship, right?" Lai quipped. The Uni-Lions are a professional baseball team in Taiwan's Chinese Professional Baseball League. ◼