Taiwan Geothermal Industry Association Launches to Accelerate National Geothermal Development

In response to Taiwan's 2050 net-zero transition and energy diversification goals, the country's first geothermal industry association led by developers, the Taiwan Geothermal Industry Association, was officially established on June 5. The association was jointly launched by nine domestic and international companies, including Hwan Tai Geothermal, CY GeoEnergy, Baseload Power Taiwan, TCC Green Energy, Deng Yang Geothermal, Hung Lung Geothermal, Pan Shih Geothermal, Jiuli Energy, and Marriott International. It aims to become a key platform for the sustainable development of the geothermal industry, fostering positive dialogue and collaboration among industry, government, academia, research institutions, and the public to collectively achieve Taiwan's geothermal power installation targets.

On the day of the inauguration, the association also held its 1st General Assembly and the first board and supervisory meeting, where the organizational structure and operational direction were confirmed. Lee Shih-Ping, Chairman of Hwan Tai Geothermal, was appointed as the first Chairperson. Chen Hsi-Sheng, Director of CY GeoEnergy, and Claire Lai, Director of Baseload Power Taiwan, were elected as Executive Directors, while Chen Wei-Yu, Chairman of Jiuli Energy, took on the role of Executive Supervisor. Other board and supervisory members were selected from the founding members. Charles Huang from CY GeoEnergy was named Secretary General, responsible for coordinating daily operations and promoting cross-sector collaboration.

The association's mission focuses on three key pillars:
1. Advocating for geothermal-related policies and regulatory frameworks
2. Promoting exchange and cooperation in technology, experience, and the industrial supply chain both domestically and internationally
3. Enhancing public communication and geothermal awareness to increase understanding and support for geothermal power generation

Currently, the nine founding members are actively conducting exploration and development in geothermal resource-rich areas such as New Taipei, Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung. Developers noted that geothermal development faces challenges including legal frameworks, environmental assessments, and local communication. Thus, the association was formed to consolidate industry consensus, translate practical experiences into concrete policy recommendations and cooperative initiatives, promote the industry's orderly growth, cultivate local talent, and strengthen the geothermal supply chain, paving the way toward international competitiveness.

Chairperson Lee Shih-Ping emphasized that geothermal energy, with its advantages of 24/7 stable power generation and low-carbon sustainability, is a key element in achieving net-zero emissions. The association will serve as a hub for industrial synergy and dialogue, working hand-in-hand with the government and all sectors to establish a friendlier, stable, and forward-looking industrial environment.