Taiwan announces first government-led geothermal tender inviting international partners

The Energy Administration under Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has announced the launch of a six-month tender process for geothermal development zones in Beinan and Luye Townships, Taitung County. The initiative marks the first time the Taiwanese government has directly released high-potential geothermal prospect areas for development, underscoring its commitment to accelerating renewable energy deployment and achieving its 2050 net-zero emissions goals.

Government-led resource development and an internationally friendly investment environment

Historically, geothermal development in Taiwan faced high entry barriers for developers due to lengthy administrative procedures and prolonged land acquisition negotiations. In this tender, the government has stepped in to streamline the process by integrating and releasing approximately 2.82 hectares of non-public national land within the Beinan and Luye geothermal potential zones, aiming to significantly shorten project development timelines. 

To mitigate uncertainties during the early stages of development, the government has established multiple investment support measures. Selected developers will benefit from streamlined administrative workflows, expedited exploration permits, and immediate access to Class-3 raw geological data disclosed by the Geological Survey and Mining Management Agency (MOEA).

Furthermore, the authorities have proactively coordinated with the National Property Administration (MOF) to reserve land-use rights, initiated early engagement with local indigenous tribes, and secured the necessary grid feeder capacity for development. This allows investment teams to focus on exploration, drilling, and project development activities.

One-Stop Digital Portal Upgrade to facilitate international matchmaking

To strengthen the promotion of geothermal power generation in Taiwan, the Energy Administration established the “Single Service Window for Taiwan Geothermal Power” few years ago. At this stage, the functionality of the office’s website has been further enhanced, allowing it to take on the critical role of facilitating cooperation between major international companies and domestic geothermal developer. Information regarding the international geothermal supply chain has already been uploaded, enabling Taiwanese developers to quickly identify international partners.

Additionally, a list of companies in Taiwan that have secured exploration permits, development permits, and demonstration incentives, along with their contact information, has been published on this platform. International developers interested in this project are welcome to collaborate with Taiwanese developers to form joint development teams and collectively pursue the opportunity to participate in these projects.

The application for this Taitung geothermal tender will remain open for six months. As Taiwan advances its three-pronged strategy, “Releasing Potential Land, Streamlining Green Administrative Channels, and Matchmaking International Supply Chains,” new opportunities are being offered for international geothermal developers, technology providers, and investors seeking to expand their presence in the Asia-Pacific market.

For more information, please visit: https://ea01.moeaea.gov.tw/b0403/Eng/Home/Index

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Source: Email correspondence

Carlo Cariaga

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