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Taiwan to invest billions in smart grid plan

A nationwide smart grid is expected to increase the contribution of solar and wind power in meeting Taiwan's energy needs. (CNA)

• Publication Date：09/07/2012
• Source： Taiwan Today
• By  June Tsai

The ROC government will invest NT$130 billion (US$4.36 billion) over the next 20 years to construct a nationwide smart grid, according to the Bureau of Energy under the Ministry of Economic Affairs Sept. 6.

The establishment of a comprehensive smart grid has been listed as part of the national energy conservation and carbon reduction project, the BOE said, adding that the plan has received approval from the Cabinet and an interagency task force will soon be formed.

Completion of the project will see an overhaul of infrastructure for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, as well as installation of smart appliances by end users, the bureau said.

The initial plan focuses on setting up national standards and certification for smart grid applications. State-run Taiwan Power Co. will be in charge of finalizing details for implementation and getting private industries on board.

The smart grid will use communication systems to link electric meters with appliances, and could effectively regulate and shift supply during peak load periods, thereby taking pressure off the island’s power plants, the bureau said. It will also allow greater penetration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, thus helping with carbon reduction.

The BOE said Taiwan’s strong information and communications infrastructure makes it an ideal place for constructing such a network.

The plan is expected to boost grid-related technology industries and services, particularly digital meters, charging systems for electric vehicles, smart appliances, energy management units, automated electricity distribution systems, wide-area monitoring schemes and storage facilities. (THN)