NVIDIA's Move to Beishike Sparks Political Debate Over Substation Construction

Central News Agency, Liu Jianbang, Chen Yuting, Taipei, 27th. With NVIDIA's Taiwan headquarters moving into the Beitou Shilin Technology Park (Beishike), the construction of a substation has become a focal point of political debate. DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang stated today that while there is sufficient power, the lack of a corresponding substation is a problem, accusing Mayor Chiang Wan-an of dragging his feet. The city government responded that it is in close negotiations with Taipower. Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin stated that Taipower plans to build the Wenlin Substation to meet the growing power demands of the AI industry. However, the city and Taipower disagree on whether to build it above-ground or underground. Kung warned that an above-ground facility would take 5 years, while an underground one would take 9 years, urging both sides to avoid repeating the delays seen with the Songhu Substation. City Councilor Lin Yan-feng also criticized the city for using the 'underground-first' principle to block Taipower's plans. Conversely, KMT Councilor Chang S-kang defended the city, noting that the underground requirement is part of the urban plan and that the city has been coordinating with Taipower on multiple proposals.