Baseload Power Taiwan secures tribal consent for geothermal exploration and development
With the opening of a local office and an MOU signing, Baseload Power Taiwan has secured overwhelming tribal support for their planned geothermal development.
Baseload Power Taiwan has now opened its local office in the Hongye Tribe, Hualien County, and signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize the cooperation. This milestone follows a tribal vote overwhelmingly approving Baseload’s lease of public land for geothermal exploration and development, making it the first private developer in Taiwan to secure tribal consent under the Indigenous Peoples Basic Law
The company’s dedication to establishing long-term trust with the local community and respecting the Hongye Tribe’s right to self-determination was key in securing the tribal vote. This was a five-year effort that included community and educational events that recognized and celebrated tribal culture.
“The consultation reflects the majority voice of our people. We appreciate Baseload’s respectful efforts and open communication, and we trust their continued commitment to shared benefits and sustainable development, while our community remains vigilant in protecting our rights,” said tribal leader Lu Shao-Ching.
Stepwise exploratory drilling and plant development phase to begin
With the exploration permit secured, Baseload Power Taiwan is now entering a two-year exploratory drilling phase, with plant development planned to follow. The company will maintain transparent communication, mitigate vibration and noise, ensure regular monitoring, and prioritize local recruitment.
Van Hoang, Chairman and CEO of Baseload Power Taiwan stated, “We are grateful for the Hongye Tribe’s support. We remain committed to the collaboration and look forward to building Hualien’s first geothermal power plant which delivers shared benefits and integrates cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, community revitalization, and clean energy development.”
Source: Email correspondence
