In recent weeks, power outages have been occurring frequently in Taoyuan, causing concerns among the public about a potential electricity shortage as the summer approaches. Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) stated on the 9th that out of the over ten thousand power lines across the island, Taoyuan accounts for one-tenth of them. Due to this high proportion, the probability of power outages due to accidents is naturally higher in Taoyuan. However, the frequency of outages has decreased from around 700 to 800 times in recent years to just over 200 times last year, with a commitment to continue implementing robust measures for the power lines.
Taipower’s spokesperson, Tsai Chih-meng, attended the “Taipower 2024 Energy Conservation Launch Press Conference” and later spoke with the media. Addressing concerns about potential power shortages in the summer, Tsai explained that power outages are typically localized events, whether caused by equipment malfunctions or external factors, resulting in temporary interruptions. He emphasized that even if the equipment is repaired during a power shortage, there may still not be enough electricity available. Since the increase in power outages in Taoyuan since April, efforts have been made to assign additional personnel for inspection and maintenance to reduce outage occurrences.
To enhance the power supply infrastructure in Taoyuan, Taipower has deployed an additional 190 personnel to conduct inspections and maintenance work, including checks on distribution equipment, infrared testing, and maintenance and replacement work. So far, 300 distribution equipment inspections have been completed, 115 line fault indicators have been installed, one section of poor overhead cables has been improved, and 180 square meters of tree trimming have been carried out. The company aims to continue strengthening the identification of weaknesses in power lines and equipment to promptly address and improve any deficiencies.
Regarding the recent concentration of power outages in Taoyuan, Tsai explained that out of the 12,570 feeder lines nationwide, Taoyuan accounts for 1,109 of them, resulting in a higher probability of accident-related outages due to its proportion. However, the number of power outages in Taoyuan has decreased from around 700 to 800 times in recent years to just over 200 times last year, with a commitment to continue implementing measures to reinforce the robustness of the power lines.
Tsai emphasized that long-term planning is in place for power supply, with the addition of new generating units exceeding the decommissioned ones by 1.2 million kilowatts this year, ensuring an adequate power supply. Additionally, with the continuous integration of renewable energy sources, a net increase of 9.1 million kilowatts is expected by 2030, surpassing the anticipated demand growth of 7 million kilowatts. The process will also see renewable energy capacity exceeding 30 million kilowatts.