Taiwan’s Tung Hsiao Power Plant project, featuring GE Vernova gas turbines, boosts energy reliability and supports Taiwan’s clean energy transition. Learn more about this innovative power solution.
Taiwan’s Energy Transformation with Tung Hsiao Power Plant
Taiwan has taken a major step toward energy transformation with the completion of the Tung Hsiao Power Plant Renewal Project. This gas-fired power plant, utilizing advanced GE Vernova gas turbine technology, provides a reliable and cleaner energy solution for the country. The plant supports Taiwan’s energy transition, moving from coal to gas and increasing renewable energy integration.
Innovative Gas Technology for a Cleaner Future
The Tung Hsiao Power Plant is not your typical gas-fired plant. It uses six highly modular LM2500XPRESS aeroderivative gas turbines from GE Vernova, which can generate up to 180 MW of electricity. These turbines are engineered to be fast, flexible, and efficient. They are also capable of running on natural gas blended with hydrogen, a key feature in Taiwan’s journey toward carbon-neutral energy by 2050.
What makes this project even more remarkable is the speed at which it was built. Construction started in February 2022, and the plant was connected to Taiwan’s grid by December the same year—a timeline of just 10 months.
Supporting Taiwan’s Renewable Energy Integration
Taiwan’s renewable energy goals include boosting offshore wind and solar power. However, these sources can be intermittent. That’s where Tung Hsiao comes in. The plant can ramp up power production in as little as eight minutes, helping stabilize the grid when renewable energy output drops. This flexibility makes Tung Hsiao a critical part of Taiwan’s energy strategy.
The project also aligns with Taiwan’s Renewable Energy Development Act (REDA) goals. This legislation aims to increase the share of gas-fired power to 50% by 2025. Currently, about 40% of Taiwan’s electricity comes from gas, and Tung Hsiao is playing a crucial role in achieving that target.
Fast Construction, High Efficiency
The Tung Hsiao project was a fast-track build, completed in record time due to the modular design of the LM2500XPRESS turbines. GE Vernova’s extensive experience in Taiwan, where it has installed more than 30 gas turbines, helped facilitate this rapid deployment. These turbines are not only quick to install but also easy to maintain, making them a practical choice for projects with tight deadlines.
In addition to fast delivery, the turbines are highly efficient. They help reduce emissions compared to older power generation technologies, and they operate with dual-fuel capability, using the latest dry low emissions technology.
Aiding Taiwan’s Energy Transition
The Tung Hsiao plant replaces older, less efficient coal-fired power plants, directly supporting Taiwan’s goal to move away from coal. Currently, coal-fired power accounts for around 43% of Taiwan’s electricity generation. However, as more gas-fired plants like Tung Hsiao come online, that figure is expected to decrease, significantly improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions.
Nam Tran, GE Vernova’s senior product manager, highlighted the turbine’s flexibility. He noted that these units can be installed in less than two weeks once all equipment is on-site. This speed is critical for countries like Taiwan that are in the middle of an energy transition and need reliable power solutions quickly.
Local and International Collaboration
Taiwanese company AIDC played a key role in the Tung Hsiao project, providing expertise in system integration and control. Houston-based Prismecs is also contributing by managing operations and maintenance for at least the first two years.
This collaboration between local and international companies exemplifies the strong partnerships needed for such significant projects. GE Vernova’s involvement in Taiwan’s energy transition dates back to 1961, and the company continues to support the country’s energy transformation goals with innovative technology and fast delivery.
A Future Built on Flexibility and Clean Energy
Tung Hsiao’s gas turbines are not just a short-term fix; they are built for the future. With the capability to burn up to 35% hydrogen today and potentially 100% hydrogen in the near future, these turbines are paving the way for Taiwan’s carbon-neutral energy goals. By helping stabilize the grid and supporting renewable energy, Tung Hsiao is a vital asset in Taiwan’s move toward cleaner, more sustainable power generation.
Taiwan’s Tung Hsiao Power Plant is a key part of the country’s clean energy future. With GE Vernova’s advanced gas turbines, the plant provides reliable power and helps integrate renewable energy sources. Its fast construction, efficient technology, and future-ready hydrogen capability make it an essential project for Taiwan’s energy transition.
