Taiwan’s electricity consumption has hit a new record high, breaking 36 million kilowatts for the first time Thursday.
Hsiao Jin-yi, an engineer for the state power company Taipower, said Friday that consumption could go even higher if the current summer heat wave continues.
Hsiao said Taipower has completed its review and maintenance of some of its generators and is capable of generating 37 or even 38 million kilowatts of electricity per day. In other words, a shortage of electricity is not a concern.
Hsiao said Taipower will coordinate with the Water Resources Agency to use the Dajia River and Choushui River to generate electricity should there be a crisis.
“In a desperate situation, we might discuss with the agency about giving us one or two hours to generate electricity. Doing so will increase our operating reserve," said Hsiao.
Taipower urged the public to save electricity by setting air conditioners to 28 degrees Celsius during peak hours from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.