International engineering consultancy COWI and Taiwanese engineering consultancy SINOTECH Engineering Consultants (SINOTECH) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of geothermal energy opportunities in Taiwan, with a particular focus on the country’s emerging ambitions in superhot geothermal energy.
The agreement establishes COWI as SINOTECH’s preferred international partner for geothermal projects in Taiwan and creates a framework for long-term collaboration in the local emerging geothermal sector. Under the MoU, COWI and SINOTECH will explore opportunities to serve as Owner’s Engineers on future geothermal developments, providing technical advisory, design and engineering expertise throughout project lifecycles.
The signing follows a visit to Iceland in June 2026 by representatives from SINOTECH and key Taiwanese geothermal stakeholders, who met with industry experts to gain first-hand insight into geothermal development and district heating systems. During the visit, the delegation explored Iceland’s world-leading geothermal sector and COWI’s role in supporting geothermal energy projects over more than five decades.
“Taiwan has set ambitious renewable energy targets and is actively exploring the potential of geothermal energy as part of its future energy mix. This partnership combines SINOTECH’s deep understanding of Taiwan’s local conditions with COWI’s extensive geothermal engineering experience. Together, we aim to help accelerate the development of geothermal projects that can contribute to Taiwan’s long-term energy security and decarbonisation goals,” said Jamal Assad, Senior Vice President, COWI International.
COWI brings internationally recognised expertise in advanced geothermal technologies, including its involvement in pioneering projects under the Iceland Deep Drilling Project (IDDP), one of the world’s most ambitious initiatives to unlock super-hot geothermal resources. The company has contributed to developments associated with IDDP-1, IDDP-2 and the ongoing preparations for IDDP-3.
Geothermal energy is getting increasing attention in Taiwan as the country pursues energy transition and its net zero ambitions. Interest is growing particularly in superhot or supercritical, geothermal resources, with potential to deliver significantly higher energy output per well compared to conventional geothermal systems.
Taiwan’s complex geological and geophysical conditions present both challenges and opportunities for geothermal development. Working alongside SINOTECH will enable COWI to deepen its understanding of geothermal projects in highly active tectonic environments while benefiting from SINOTECH’s extensive local expertise, stakeholder relationships and market knowledge.
The partnership positions both companies at the forefront of Taiwan’s emerging geothermal industry and supports broader efforts to expand renewable energy capacity across the Asia-Pacific region.
The collaboration builds on a successful relationship between the two companies. COWI and SINOTECH previously worked together on Formosa 1, Taiwan’s first offshore wind farm, helping deliver a landmark renewable energy project that paved the way for the country’s offshore wind industry. Building on that experience, both organizations share an ambition to support the development of Taiwan’s first super-hot geothermal projects and the next phase of the country’s renewable energy transition.
Source: Email correspondence
