Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) has officially commenced exploratory drilling to assess the geothermal resource development potential in the Guguan area of Taichung. Taipower and the Taichung City Government announced their joint plan to drill three exploratory wells in Guguan to confirm the feasibility of geothermal energy in the region.

This project aims for a maximum power generation capacity of 15 MW, which could supply electricity to approximately 12,000 households. If the development is successful, it will mark Taichung's first geothermal power plant.

According to the Taichung City Economic Development Bureau, a total of three exploratory wells, designated Guguan Well No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3, will be drilled as part of this exploration plan. Each well will reach a maximum depth of 2,000 meters, focusing on exploring pre-identified fault zones and fracture zones. The information obtained from this drilling will be crucial data for evaluating the feasibility of constructing a geothermal power plant in the Guguan area in the future.

The geothermal exploration in the Guguan area is part of a nationwide geothermal resource assessment campaign promoted by Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA). The MOEA is comprehensively reviewing the geothermal energy development potential of ten pre-identified high-potential areas across Taiwan. Recently, the MOEA hosted the 'Taiwan International Geothermal Conference,' reaffirming the Taiwan government's strong support for the development of the geothermal energy industry.

Taiwan Emphasizes Importance of Geothermal Power for Renewable Energy Expansion

As an island nation with a low energy self-sufficiency rate, Taiwan relies heavily on energy imports. To overcome this energy security vulnerability and actively respond to climate change, Taiwan is accelerating the development of renewable energy sources. In particular, Taiwan, with its active volcanic geological characteristics, possesses abundant geothermal energy resources and has been continuously striving to utilize them.

Geothermal power has the advantage of providing a stable energy supply regardless of weather or season, allowing it to serve as a baseload power source compared to the high variability of solar and wind power. Additionally, geothermal power plants occupy relatively small sites and produce almost no carbon emissions during operation, making them an environmentally friendly energy source.

Expected Effects and Challenges of the Guguan Geothermal Power Project

If the geothermal power project in Taichung's Guguan area is successfully implemented, it is expected to significantly contribute to increasing Taichung's energy independence. The 15 MW power generation capacity is substantial and could positively impact the local economy. Furthermore, by securing a clean energy source, Taichung City can take another step towards sustainable urban development.

However, geothermal power projects can face numerous technical and economic difficulties from the initial exploration stage. Accurately identifying the location, size, temperature, and flow rate of geothermal resources deep underground requires advanced technology, and unexpected problems during the drilling process cannot be ruled out. Additionally, the initial investment costs are high, and efforts are needed to minimize environmental impacts during the construction and operation of the power plant.

Taiwan Government's Geothermal Energy Development Support Policies

The Taiwanese government is actively promoting various policies to support geothermal energy development. The MOEA is providing funding for exploration and research and development in areas with high geothermal potential and is also focusing on developing related technologies and fostering human resources. Furthermore, it is working to attract private investment by offering incentives to geothermal power developers and easing regulations.

At the recent 'Taiwan International Geothermal Conference,' government officials emphasized that Taiwan's geothermal energy potential is significant and that with active government support, geothermal power can become a crucial energy source for Taiwan in the near future. In particular, to achieve the 2050 carbon neutrality goal, the expansion of renewable energy is essential, and geothermal power is expected to play a key role in this.

Future Prospects and Challenges

Taipower's exploratory drilling in the Guguan area will be a significant milestone in Taiwan's geothermal energy development. The data obtained from this exploration will not only be valuable for assessing the geothermal potential across Taiwan but will also play a crucial role in determining whether to construct an actual power plant.

For the successful construction of a geothermal power plant, it is essential to secure accurate data during the exploration phase, develop technologies to minimize environmental impacts, and ensure communication and cooperation with local residents. Furthermore, technical and economic challenges must be overcome through continuous government support and active participation from private companies.

It remains to be seen whether Taiwan can leverage its abundant geothermal resources to increase energy independence and build a sustainable energy system. The success of the Guguan geothermal power project is likely to be an important test for Taiwan's renewable energy policy.