Analysis: Google Signs First Geothermal Deal in Taiwan

TaiwanPlus News

Google has signed a deal to purchase geothermal energy from Taiwan. It's planning on transitioning its data centers in the country to run on green energy.

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00:00What does it mean that Google's first geothermal energy project in Asia is here in Taiwan?

00:06The geothermal energy is quite popular in Asia, like India, Indonesia, Philippines, and Japan.

00:15They all have tremendous geothermal power plants, but they choose the first one in Asia.

00:23They know the Taiwan government has permitted the geothermal strategy and policy.

00:31And also, they have data center in Taiwan, so they have promised 100% renewable energy.

00:3910 MW in Taiwan is just a very small part because they want to finish the project by 2029.

00:49But in 2030, based on the Ministry of Economy, there it goes.

00:55In 2030, in Taiwan, we should have 1.2 GW.

01:00That means 1,200 MW geothermal capacity in Taiwan.

01:07So 10 MW is just a very small part.

01:10So I think that's just the beginning.

01:13Google is partnering with Baseload Power Taiwan to develop this geothermal plant,

01:17but all of its projects in Taiwan are in development so far.

01:21What challenges do you expect to see this project face ahead?

01:24I think they must conquer some challenges that there are some local authorities, local government.

01:33I think that's a big challenge for them.

01:38Because in Taiwan, the geothermal law is only included in the renewable energies law.

01:48So they are not protecting the right to developers to develop a geothermal resource on the ground.

01:57So that's a big challenge for them.

02:01Because they will face a few competitors.

02:06They may choose the similar area as they choose.

02:10Do you think corporate partnerships like this one genuinely support Taiwan's net zero goals?

02:15Or do you think this is more about image than impact?

02:19I think corporate partnership is a very effective strategy in Taiwan.

02:26Because some companies they have technology.

02:31Some companies they have land.

02:34Corporate partnership is a very effective strategy.

02:38Because in Taiwan, now we have to connect to global.

02:43They have more advanced technology that can utilize in geothermal and make the developer more low risk, low cost.

02:54I can imagine that it will be a very good impact for the future.

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