Power Grid is Core Issue for Longtan Science Park Phase 3, Says Taipower Chairman; 7 Transmission Projects Needed

(CNA, Taipei, May 20, by reporters Hsieh Yi-hsuan and Tseng Yun-ting) With rumors of TSMC's planned entry into Longtan Science Park's Phase 3, Taipower had previously mentioned considering a new Datan No. 10 unit and upgrading existing units. Today, Taipower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng stated that the core issue for Longtan Phase 3 is the power grid, and that seven transmission projects must be completed before power can be supplied. Taipower is continuously assessing the situation and will subsequently consult with the Taoyuan City Government for assistance. With TSMC rumored to be setting up a factory in the Longtan Science Park expansion plan (Longtan Phase 3), an increase in electricity demand is expected. Taipower General Manager Kuo Tian-ho had previously mentioned that the company has begun evaluating the renovation and upgrade plan for Datan Power Plant's units 1 to 6, and is also internally considering the construction of a new Datan No. 10 unit. The Legislative Yuan's Economics Committee today reviewed the operating budget of subordinate units in the central government's fiscal year 115 general budget, including the budgets for Taiwan Power Company and Taiwan Sugar Corporation, which are under the Ministry of Economic Affairs. KMT Legislator Lu Yu-ling expressed concern over whether Taipower would upgrade Datan's units 1 to 6 or plan for a new No. 10 unit. Taipower Chairman Tseng Wen-sheng stated that the core problem for Longtan Phase 3 lies in the power grid. Taipower will confirm the feasible construction projects as soon as possible, requiring about seven transmission line projects to supply power. Currently, Taipower is continuously assessing and communicating with the National Science and Technology Council, and is also consulting with the Taoyuan City Government to confirm if assistance can be obtained. Lu Yu-ling expressed hope that the two plans—upgrading Datan units 1 to 6 and building a new No. 10 unit—could proceed simultaneously and be deployed proactively, rather than waiting for TSMC to apply for entry before evaluation begins. Tseng Wen-sheng responded that the aforementioned plans are all in the internal evaluation stage, and Taipower will conduct long-term power source development planning and propose them as required by the timeline. The Hsinchu Science Park Bureau is expected to submit the investment plan for the Longtan Science Park expansion (Longtan Phase 3) to the National Science and Technology Council for review in May. Market rumors suggest that TSMC will build an angstrom-generation fab. TSMC previously gave a brief statement, not ruling out any possibilities, but has not confirmed whether it will build an angstrom-fab. (Editor: Pan Yi-ching)