Polish Radio SA recently reported that Taiwan’s energy security is a critical component of its broader national security architecture, shaped by its structural dependence on imported energy and increasing geopolitical pressure. The report also emphasized the steps Taiwan is taking to strengthen its energy resilience, while quoting analyses from DSET’s Director of the Energy Security and Climate Resilience Program, Tsaiying Lu, and Policy Analyst, Elizabeth Frost.
The report says that with approximately 97% of its energy supply sourced externally, the island’s economic stability—particularly its semiconductor sector—remains highly exposed to disruptions in global supply chains. DSET Policy Analyst Elizabeth Frost says that Taiwan’s dependence on imported LNG and coal creates a clear structural vulnerability, particularly as critical infrastructure such as ports and LNG terminals could be targeted in crisis scenarios.
The report points out that recent military exercises in the region have underscored the strategic risks facing Taiwan’s energy system, including simulated disruptions to maritime supply routes and key energy infrastructure. In response, Taiwan is advancing a multi-pronged resilience strategy focused on diversifying import sources, expanding renewable energy capacity, increasing strategic reserves, and strengthening the protection of critical infrastructure.
Frost notes that Taiwan is prioritizing diversifying supply, expanding renewable capacity and investing more in storage systems. These measures are essential to enhancing operational resilience in the face of supply disruptions.
The report also highlights Ukraine’s experience as particularly relevant for Taiwan. Frost says the key lessons include the value of system flexibility, decentralization, and rapid coordination with international partners to maintain energy system continuity under crisis conditions.
The report concludes that strengthening energy resilience will remain central to Taiwan’s ability to navigate geopolitical risk while safeguarding economic and national security interests. Taiwan also has the potential to contribute to international efforts to build energy resilience. DSET’s Director of Energy Security and Climate Resilience Program Tsaiying Lu echoes this, saying that Taiwan’s industrial capabilities in renewable energy technologies and battery storage systems position it as a valuable partner in supporting green transition. DSET’s Energy Security and Climate Resilience Program will also continue to follow related developments regarding Taiwan and regional energy security and transition.
