Taiwan: Authorities implementing rotational power cuts May 17; additional rounds possible

Event

Authorities are implementing rotating power outages in areas throughout Taiwan as of late May 17 following a malfunction at the Hsinta Power Plant in Kaohsiung. Decreased power generation and an apparent increase in demand have prompted rolling blackouts in several areas, including Keelung and Taichung. Electricity workers are conducting emergency restoration work. The rotational cuts have resulted in electricity outages for hundreds of thousands of customers. Although officials plan to fully restore power by early May 18, additional rounds of outages are possible throughout Taiwan.

Business and communications disruptions are will continue for the duration of the power cuts. Localized transport disruptions are likely, especially as ground transport infrastructure, such as traffic lights, will probably be disrupted in multiple areas.

Advice

Plan for additional power outages. Conserve batteries and restrict cellphone use to emergencies in case of an extended power outage. Exercise caution when driving or crossing streets if traffic signals are not functioning.