Full Breakdown
Taiwan Increases Coal Power Amid Middle East Conflict
4/7/2026, 8:46:55 AM
Shift to Coal-Fired Power Generation
In response to disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Taiwan is set to increase its reliance on coal-fired power generation. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has directed Taiwan Power Co. (Taipower) to restart two coal-fired units at the Mailiao Power Plant in Yunlin County starting in May. This decision comes as the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has significantly impacted global energy markets, leading to reduced flows of LNG and crude oil.
Taiwan typically depends on LNG for approximately half of its electricity generation, with about one-third of its LNG supplies sourced from Qatar. The shutdown of Qatar's largest LNG export plant, alongside the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has prompted Taiwan to seek alternative energy sources. The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that the increase in coal-fired power is aimed at addressing supply risks and mitigating the impact of high gas prices on electricity rates.
Operational Details and Environmental Considerations
The Mailiao Power Plant's Units 1 and 3, each with a generating capacity of 500,000 kilowatts, are expected to operate for an initial three-month period, with the possibility of extension depending on the situation in the Middle East. Taipower has assured that the short-term operations will not exceed last year’s total coal consumption. The units are equipped with environmental protection measures, including wet electrostatic precipitators, to minimize emissions.
Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-shan emphasized the need for stricter environmental controls during this period, balancing national energy needs with public health concerns. She also highlighted the importance of reviewing Taiwan's overall energy policy in light of the ongoing conflict.
Broader Implications and Regional Responses
The shift towards coal is not unique to Taiwan; countries such as Japan, South Korea, Germany, Thailand, and the Philippines have also increased coal-fired output as a response to rising energy costs and supply uncertainties. This trend reflects a broader regional pivot back to coal amid the disruptions in natural gas supplies.
Premier Cho Jung-tai has instructed the Ministry of Economic Affairs to coordinate with CPC Corp. and Formosa Plastics to enhance procurement of crude oil to stabilize prices. Additionally, the transport ministry has initiated subsidies for aviation fuel to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.
Official Statements & Responses
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has stated that Taiwan's domestic gas supply remains sufficient and that all power generation units are operating as scheduled. However, the ongoing conflict continues to pose risks to global energy supplies, necessitating a temporary increase in coal-fired generation to enhance flexibility in LNG dispatching and safeguard Taiwan’s energy security.
Criticism & Opposition
While the government has moved to increase coal usage, there are concerns regarding air pollution and the long-term sustainability of this energy strategy. Chang Li-shan has called for a review of Taiwan's energy policy, suggesting that the government consider restarting nuclear power to ensure long-term energy stability.
Verbatim Quotes
“Given the uncertainty surrounding the conflict, Taipower said the temporary increase in coal-fired generation is intended to enhance flexibility in LNG dispatching and safeguard Taiwan’s energy security.” — Ministry of Economic Affairs
“She said that while the units’ permits remain valid and regional tensions have affected national energy supply, the county government has a responsibility to protect public health and prevent air pollution.” — Chang Li-shan, Yunlin County Magistrate
“Yeh said countries such as Japan, South Korea, Germany, Thailand, and the Philippines have taken emergency measures to adjust their power generation mix, increasing coal-fired output to mitigate natural gas supply risks and rising energy costs.” — Yeh Chun-hsien, National Development Council Chair
