Local authorities are questioning whether Taichung’s new gas power plant project, “Zhonghuo Phase 2,” will increase air pollution. During a visit to the plant on Friday, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) responded to concerns, saying that the plans have passed environmental assessments.
Cho also announced that if this current project goes smoothly, it will lead the way for more gas power plant construction and create room to re-examine Taiwan’s coal-fired units. According to Taipower, Zhonghuo Phase 2 will reduce coal consumption by 3 million tons per year.
The premier added that Taipower has been asked to speed up operations to reach coal-free power generation by 2034. With the completion of Taichung’s new gas power plants, he ensured that renewable energy in various places can then be fully developed.