Penghu County, with its strong potential for wind power generation, might be able to develop “green” energy in addition to its tourism industry, Premier Lin Chuan (林全) said yesterday during a visit to the islands.
Visiting the historic Matsu temple, a hospital run by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, as well as wind power facilities, the premier made his first trip to Penghu since he was sworn in last month.
“Penghu is a county with many beautiful islands, and [the county government’s decision to] make it a low-carbon-emission region is a good objective,” Lin said.
Photo: CNA
“I hope that, besides wind power, Penghu can build other ‘green’ energy facilities, making it known for its ‘green’ energy,” he added.
The premier said that according to official figures provided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Jhongtun Wind Power Plant in Penghu’s Baisha Township (白沙) can operate at full capacity for 3,800 hours per year, which is much higher than the average 2,500 to 3,000 hours on Taiwan proper’s west coast because of its strong winds, adding that the county also has strong potential for solar power generation.
Although the tourism industry is already prosperous in Penghu, there is only about a six-month peak period due to its climate.
Supplying power might be another way to develop the local economy, Lin said.
“The problem with wind or solar energy [in Penghu] is transferring electricity generated in Penghu to the grid in Taiwan proper,” Lin said.
“It is the last mile for the industry,” the premier added.
“The Executive Yuan would help to solve the issue by bringing the Penghu and Yunlin County governments together to discuss it,” he said.
Lin also said that he observed a lack of medical resources in Penghu, and has asked Minister of Health and Welfare Lin Tzou-yien (林奏延), who accompanied him on the trip, to research and propose solutions.
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