New Taipei crowned national energy-saving champion

2016/01/14

New Taipei City was named Taiwan’s top electricity saver Jan. 12 in a smart city energy campaign organized by the ROC Ministry of Economic Affairs.

From April to November 2015, the northern Taiwan metropolis slashed electricity consumption by 127 million kilowatt-hours, or 1.24 percent from the preceding period to top all cities and counties nationwide. It also clinched six creative green strategy awards and won the online poll, collecting prize money of NT$190 million (US$5.7 million) in the process.

Other cities turning in praiseworthy performances include runners-up Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Taipei and Taoyuan, in that order.

Premier Mao Chi-kuo, who attended the award ceremony in Taipei, lauded the winners for leading the way in prudent planning, innovative urban policymaking and cross-sector collaboration.

“A common feature in the energy efficiency programs of these metropolises is the enthusiastic participation of the people,” Mao said, adding that national electricity consumption decreased 1 percent as a result of the campaign.

“This success illustrates the effectiveness of public-private cooperation and concerted efforts among all levels of government.”

As Taiwan imports 98 percent of its energy, Mao said it is imperative the nation implement a stable and reliable supply and usage strategy. “But before society can reach a consensus regarding generation, Taiwan must do more on the demand side and conserve as much power as possible to avert energy shortages.”

According to the premier, the government sees the campaign as a springboard for enhancing further collaboration between local governments and civil groups in this regard.

“There is every reason to believe this initiative will help Taiwan reach the goal of reducing electricity consumption by 2 percent in 2016 and continue along the path toward a sustainable energy future.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=241214&ctNode=2194&mp=9)