TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) said Saturday that Taiwan is taking firm steps toward a low-carbon future, with emissions cuts of up to 40% by 2035.
Speaking at the Japan Energy Summit and Exhibition in Tokyo, Peng pointed to Taiwan’s updated carbon plan which aims to cut emissions 36% to 40% by 2035 from 2005 levels, per CNA. He also cited the decommissioning of Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant’s Unit 2 as a signal of Taiwan’s transition toward a balanced energy mix.
Peng explained that Taiwan has now entered its carbon pricing era, preparing to launch trial carbon trading alongside a carbon fee mechanism. This dual-track system is aimed at incentivizing emissions reductions while laying the foundation for a mature carbon market.
Taiwan is also ramping up investment in key net-zero technologies including solar power, offshore wind, and energy storage. These efforts are essential for achieving long-term energy resilience and decarbonization, Peng said.
While each energy source has its risks and benefits, Peng said, the country will prioritize international partnerships to accelerate deployment and innovation. He called for deeper global cooperation to address the shared challenges of energy transition.
The environment ministry said Taiwan will push forward its domestic carbon pricing system and enhance carbon accounting practices.