Taiwan Aims for Deeper Emissions Reduction Cuts of 30% by 2030

(Bloomberg) -- Taiwan seeks to cut greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 30% by 2030, upgrading a previous target despite challenges expanding renewable generation.

The government is targeting a 26% to 30% reduction by the end of the decade from 2005 levels, the Environment Ministry said in a statement on Monday. An earlier goal was to cut emissions by 23% to 25%.

The island is behind schedule in achieving its initial targets to bring sufficient renewable power online, with delays plaguing the rollout of infrastructure and offshore wind facilities. Meanwhile, the government is sticking to its plan to shut its last nuclear reactor next year, which threatens to force the island to depend more on imported fossil fuels.

The new goal — which the ministry says is the second-highest in neighboring countries in Asia, following Japan’s 41% target — comes as the Taiwanese government prepares its plans for 2032 and 2035. The move follows countries including the UK and US in setting out upgraded emissions-cutting commitments ahead of a February deadline for nations to submit new climate targets under the Paris Agreement.

©2024 Bloomberg L.P.