Offshore Wind Turbines Survive Typhoon Bavi, Peak Instantaneous Generation Equals Six Taichung Power Plant Units

According to Central News Agency reporter Hsieh Yi-hsuan in Taipei, Typhoon Bavi brought powerful gusts to Taiwan's coastal areas. The Ministry of Economic Affairs announced that all 500 offshore wind turbines across Taiwan not only withstood 11-level gale-force winds but also recorded a peak instantaneous power generation of 3,356 MW—equivalent to the full output of six generating units at the Taichung Power Plant—supplying approximately 10% of Taiwan's electricity demand during the typhoon.

The Ministry stated today via Facebook that Typhoon Bavi brought 11-level gusts, with wind speeds reaching about 32.6 meters per second. Under these intense conditions, all offshore wind turbines operated at full capacity. From September 9 to 11, the highest instantaneous generation reached 3,356 MW.

The Ministry explained that the wind conditions brought by Typhoon Bavi were ideal for power generation, making offshore wind a crucial contributor to stable electricity supply during the storm. However, higher wind speeds do not always mean more power output. Wind turbines operate most efficiently within safe operational limits. If wind speeds exceed certain thresholds, the turbines automatically activate protective mechanisms and shut down to prevent damage.

The Ministry emphasized that it will continue expanding offshore wind power development, harnessing the winds of the Taiwan Strait to sustainably power Taiwan. (Edited by Pan Yi-ching)