Feasibility of Replacing Nuclear and Fossil Fuel Energy with Offshore Wind Energy: A Case for Taiwan

Adequate recognition of the offshore wind energy potential may help coastal states frame proper energy policies for replacing nuclear and fossil fuel energy. In this study, we examined the application potential of the offshore wind energy generated by 31 offshore wind farms designated by the Taiwanese government for future exploitation. Our findings indicate that offshore wind energy (through its substantial power generation volume and capacity factor) can play the most pivotal role in future power generation for Taiwan. A total of 59.3 TWh of electricity produced from offshore wind energy and solar photovoltaics (PVs) each year could replace the power generated from nuclear energy by 2025. Coal-fired power generation could be replaced by offshore wind energy and other renewables by 2032. The full exploitation of offshore wind farms as detailed in this study (103.4 TWh/year), together with other renewables, could reduce the share of liquefied natural gas-fired power generation to 5.6% of the total Taiwanese power supply by 2040. Realizing the ultimate target of 100% carbon-neutral power generation would rely mainly on a further decrease in electricity consumption per unit of gross domestic product and the expansion of offshore wind energy and geothermal energy.

Automated summary

This study examines the potential application of offshore wind energy in Taiwan and finds that it has substantial power generation capacity, making it a key player in future power generation. By replacing nuclear energy with offshore wind energy and solar photovoltaics, Taiwan could achieve complete replacement of nuclear energy by 2025 and coal-fired power generation by 2032. The full exploitation of offshore wind farms, along with other renewables, could significantly reduce the reliance on liquefied natural gas-fired power generation by 2040. The ultimate goal of 100% carbon-neutral power generation would require further reduction in electricity consumption per unit of GDP and the expansion of offshore wind energy and geothermal energy.