Taipei's Songhu Substation construction begins, targeting 2029 completion for stable power.

Taipower held a groundbreaking and blessing ceremony today (the 24th) for the ultra-high voltage substation and multi-purpose building in Songhu District, officially announcing the commencement of the "Songhu Substation" project. After 26 years of promotion, numerous planning revisions, and land expropriation controversies, the substation will finally be established in the Ganghu area of the city's East District. Taipower stated that the substation is scheduled for completion in 2029 and will become a vital power transmission node in eastern Taipei, providing a more stable power supply for industrial development in the Ganghu area.

The construction background of the Songhu Substation dates back to the 1990s. At that time, eastern Taipei had emerged as a burgeoning industrial zone, and the Ganghu area was home to numerous semiconductor, precision machinery, and electronic component manufacturers. With the increase in industrial agglomeration, electricity demand surged rapidly, and existing power transmission facilities could no longer meet peak loads. Consequently, Taipower initiated a feasibility study for the "Songhu Substation" in 2005, and formally incorporated it into national energy policy in 2010. However, factors such as land expropriation, environmental impact assessments, and protests from local residents led to repeated delays. The project finally broke through various obstacles in 2024 to officially enter the construction phase.

In addition to high-ranking Taipower executives and local government officials, the groundbreaking ceremony invited representatives from several industrial associations and community residents to participate. A Taipower vice president stated that the Songhu Substation will adopt the latest ultra-high voltage transmission technology and be equipped with intelligent monitoring systems to enhance grid reliability and flexibility. The multi-purpose building will serve a dual function as a parking lot, community service center, and green energy exhibition space, aiming to foster symbiotic development between industry and the community.

From a macro perspective, the completion of the Songhu Substation will have a profound impact on Taipei City's energy structure. Taipower estimates that the substation will increase the grid capacity of the East District by approximately 30 percent and effectively alleviate power shortages in the Ganghu area during peak hours. This move also aligns with the "energy transition" policy, laying the groundwork for future green energy deployment and the installation of electric vehicle charging networks. The local government also noted that with improved power infrastructure, the Ganghu area is expected to attract more high-tech enterprises, further boosting regional competitiveness.

In summary, the commencement of the Songhu Substation marks a significant step forward in Taipei City's energy infrastructure. From 26 years of planning to today's official groundbreaking, this is not only a victory for Taipower, but also the result of joint efforts by the local government, industry, and the community. Over the next five years, as construction progresses, the power supply in eastern Taipei will become more stable, providing a solid backing for local economic development and energy security. (Source of facts: Central News Agency)