Month: April 2025

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

For over a decade, Taipower has been dedicated to conserving Kaohsiung’s Yong’an Wetland and creating a haven for black-faced spoonbills there. Through scientific management and water level control technology, the wetland has been transformed into a welcoming ‘Waterbird Hotel’ – an ideal migratory bird habitat and feeding ground. Since autumn last year (2024), the site has hosted hundreds of migratory birds, including globally endangered species such as the black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor), northern shoveler (Spatula clypeata), and Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope).

Integrating the wetland’s unique features into its operations, Hsinta Power Plant developed an environmental education program that has been certified by the Ministry of Environment. This makes it the first thermal power plant in Taiwan to be officially designated as an environmental education site. The unveiling ceremony was held today (January 3). A Taipower representative stated that while Taipower remains committed to its mission of ensuring stable power supply, it will also continue promoting environmental education and preserving the biodiversity of the Yong’an Wetland, so that these feathered guests can enjoy a cozy winter and make every visit a happy ‘Bird-Day’.

Taipower held the Yong’an Wetland Migratory Bird Season and Environmental Education Site Unveiling Ceremony today at the Yong’an Wetland Ecological Education Center in Kaohsiung. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Taipower Chairman Tseng Wen-Sheng; Kaohsiung City Government Public Works Bureau Director Yang Chin-Fu; Kaohsiung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau Deputy Director Huang Shih-Hung; and former Kaohsiung City Government Advisor Tsan-Cheng Lin. Together, they jointly unveiled the plaque. Students and teachers from Yong’an Elementary School and Xingang Elementary School were also invited to participate in birdwatching activities, enthusiastically welcoming the start of the migratory bird season at Yong’an Wetland.

Ecological restoration success – black-faced spoonbill population quadruples in 10 years

A Taipower representative stated that in 2010, the Company established an ecological survey team and launched ecological conservation research. Since then, they have collected over 500,000 waterbird and water depth observations. Through scientific management and water level control technology, the number of waterbirds at Yong’an Wetland has increased significantly, with the black-faced spoonbill population growing fourfold over the past decade. Today, Yong’an Wetland has become a winter sanctuary for migratory birds. As early as last October, black-faced spoonbills had already been spotted, and recently, charming visitors such as black-winged stilts (Himantopus himantopus), northern shovelers, and Eurasian wigeons have also been seen.

A Taipower representative explained that Yong’an Wetland was originally developed as the Wushulin Salt Fields during the Japanese colonial period. In 1984, with the transformation of the salt industry, the land ownership was transferred to Taipower for power development purposes. However, Taipower not only preserved the Wushulin Salt Manufacturing Company Office – a County-designated historic site – but also made efforts to minimize the scope of development. Taipower retained two-thirds of the site as environmental conservation land, deliberately avoiding key bird habitats. The overall plan designates 41.25 hectares as wetland conservation area and 15 hectares as an ecological buffer zone with greenbelts and protected areas. Statistics show that over 160 species of birds have been recorded visiting the site. The notable phenomenon of “migratory birds becoming resident birds” has also been observed, with species such as the Kentish plover (Anarhynchus alexandrines) and black-winged stilt now settling and breeding in the area.

Taipower also collaborated with internationally-acclaimed, award-winning director Hsu Hung-Lung to produce the documentary film “Flying Bird Power Plant”. The film records Taipower’s efforts and achievements in ecological conservation. The film has earned multiple honors, including a Platinum Remi Award at the 2024 WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, a Document Special Award at the Accolade Global Film Competition, and an Award of Excellence for Nature/Environment/Wildlife at the All-American Short Film Competition.

Integrating wetland wonders with energy exploration – three different courses to have fun in!

Hsinta Power Plant is the only power plant in Taiwan with a wetland onsite. Taipower has integrated ecological conservation with energy education to develop three courses: Wonders of Hsinta; Eco Task Force; and Chasing the Spark. Led by a team of expert instructors, participants can explore the saltwater wetland ecosystem, observing mangrove plants and aquatic fish, shrimp, and shellfish, while also learning about power generation principles. The courses include hands-on creative activities using byproducts from the power generation process, offering a fun and educational experience.

A Taipower representative stated that Hsinta Power Plant received official certification from the Ministry of Environment as an Environmental Education Facility in September last year. The unveiling ceremony was held today, and the site will be open for reservations starting January 10. (For details, please visit the Hsinta Power Plant Environmental Education website: https://www.hsinta-ee.com.tw/ .) Schools and organizations are welcome to get in touch and schedule visits.

Balancing a stable power supply with ecological conservation: Hsinta’s new Unit 1 undergoing trial operation

To meet growing electricity demand and achieve the net-zero emission goals, Taipower is currently constructing new gas-fired combined cycle units at Hsinta Power Plant. The three new units will have a total installed capacity of 3.9 GW. Construction began in December 2020, and by the end of last year, the project was more than 80% complete. A Taipower representative pointed out that the new Unit 1 first began generating power last September, and is currently undergoing trial operation. The goal is for the unit to be ready for grid dispatch by the end of February, followed by commercial operation. Once officially online, it is expected to generate over 7 TWh of low-carbon electricity per year. Meanwhile, new Units 2 and 3 are currently undergoing mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical installation. They are projected to be gradually connected to the grid starting this year.

Spokesperson: Vice President Tsai Chih-Meng
Phone: (02) 2366-6271/0958-749-333
Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
Contact Person: Department of Environmental Protection Director Wu Cheng-Hung
Phone: (02) 2366-7200/0927-291-156
Email: u015279@taipower.com.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Progress continues in nuclear waste management, with the outdoor dry storage project at Kuosheng Nuclear Power Plant set to commence construction. A Taipower representative pointed out that, in 2015, the soil and water conservation plan for the outdoor dry storage facility at Kuosheng was approved by the Council of Agriculture (now the Ministry of Agriculture). Subsequently, after nine years of effort, the Construction Site Plan for Reduction of Pollutants from Runoff Wastewater required for building the dry storage facility was approved by the New Taipei City Government this past August (2024). Approval for construction commencement was granted in November. Today (December 31), Taipower held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction, symbolizing a solid first step in the steady progress toward nuclear power decommissioning.

A Taipower representative explained that the outdoor dry storage facility at Kuosheng will use dry storage casks designed by NAC International, a nuclear equipment company based in the US. A total of 27 casks are planned for the outdoor facility, with each cask capable of storing 87 spent fuel assemblies. Construction is expected to be completed by 2026. After obtaining a completion certificate from the New Taipei City Government, the facility will undergo commissioning tests, including cold tests and hot tests; then, Taipower will apply to the Nuclear Safety Commission for an operating license. Taipower projects obtaining the license in 2027.

A Taipower representative stated that the dry storage facility is a critical preliminary component of the decommissioning project. Only after construction is completed and an operating license is obtained can the spent nuclear fuel be gradually removed from the reactor, and only then can the decommissioning process be implemented at full scale. During construction, all work will be carried out in strict accordance with the approved Environmental Impact Statement and Soil and Water Conservation Plan. Taipower will closely monitor construction quality and ensure that all work complies with nuclear safety regulations and occupational safety and quality control standards, as Taipower completes this key project in the decommissioning of Kuosheng Nuclear Power Plant.

Spokesperson: Vice President Tsai Chih-Meng
Phone: (02) 2366-6271/0958-749-333
Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw

Contact Person: Department of Nuclear Back-end Management Director Liao Ying-Chen
Phone: (02)2365-7210 ext. 2200/0953-685-053
Email: u880803@taipower.com.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Taiwan Corporate Sustainability Awards, known as the “Oscars of Corporate Sustainability”, held their award ceremony today (December 11). Taipower stood out among 526 companies to win the Corporate Sustainability Report Platinum Award, as well as a Best Sustainability Practice Awards in Taiwan and a Creative Communication Leadership Award. Notably, Taipower has been recognized in the Sustainability Reporting category for 16 years in a row since 2009. This also marks the sixth time the Company has received the Platinum Award, the highest honor in the Energy Industry category. A Taipower representative stated that because electricity is a vital foundation for Taiwan’s livelihood and economic development, Taipower remains committed to ensuring both stable power supply and environmental sustainability.

For the 17th Taiwan Corporate Sustainability Awards in 2024, the individual performance awards were presented on November 20. Then, today, the award ceremony for the Sustainability Reporting and Comprehensive Sustainability Performance categories was held today at the Grand Hilai Taipei hotel. Department of Corporate Planning Director Kuo Chiu-Ying represented Taipower in accepting the prestigious awards from Eugene Chien, Chairman of the Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy.

A Taipower representative pointed out that winning a Corporate Sustainability Report Platinum Award and a Best Sustainability Practice Awards ( Comprehensive Performance Category) this year highlights the Company’s outstanding achievements in three aspects – environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and corporate governance – and in thoroughly and transparently disclosing this information in the sustainability report. Taipower’s 2023 Sustainability Report outlines the Company’s comprehensive sustainability development plan, presenting five sustainability visions, ten strategic pathways, and initiatives corresponding to each. These efforts align with both the United Nations and Taiwan’s sustainable development goals (SDGs). This year, the report places even greater emphasis on disclosing information in key areas such as climate action, sustainable supply chain development, and ecological inclusion, showcasing Taipower’s concrete actions toward achieving sustainable operations.

In recent years, Taipower has continuously advanced renewable energy development, promoted modernization for low-carbon power generation, and adopted new energy technologies, steadily progressing toward the goal of net-zero emissions for the power sector. In addition, Taipower embraces the spirit of other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs), applying nature-based solutions to foster harmony between power infrastructure and ecological systems, and thus protecting biodiversity and the natural environment. Examples include using conservation efforts at the Yong’an Wetlands near the Hsinta Power Plant to create a Flying Bird Power Plant; and implementing a bat habitat relocation project at the Taixi Wind Plant.

A Taipower representative explained that this is the Company’s fifth time receiving the Creative Communication Leadership Award in the corporate governance category of the Sustainability Performance Awards. The Company has continued to promote popular science education on electricity through initiatives tailored to audiences of all ages. These initiatives include helping create the Taiwan Science Train and the Workplace Visitation Program for Youth; organizing the kW Design Award, Taiwan’s only electricity-themed design competition; and creating TAIPOWER D/S ONE, Taiwan’s first green energy-themed exhibition hall. Through these diverse, creative, interactive platforms, Taipower effectively connects knowledge of power to everyday life. In recognition of these efforts, Taipower was also honored with a Taiwan Sustainability Action Award at the 2024 SDG Asia this August.

Spokesperson: Vice President Tsai Chih-Meng
Phone: (02) 2366-6271/0958-749-333
Email: u910707@taipower.com.tw
Contact Person: Department of Corporate Planning Director Kuo Chiu-Ying
Phone: (02) 2366-6440/0978-105-282
Email: u004770@taipower.com.tw

Source: Government of Singapore

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 14 APR 2025 11:04PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today remarked on his friendship with Captain Vijayakanth and reflected on latter’s service to the society.

In response to post by Smt Premallatha Vijayakant on X, Shri Modi wrote:

“My dear friend Captain Vijayakanth was remarkable!
He and I interacted so closely over the years and also worked together. 

People across generations remember him for the good he did for society. 

@PremallathaDmdk”

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2121682) Visitor Counter : 82

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

To strengthen self-protection capabilities of students with special educational needs and senior citizens, the Consumer Council and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) have joined hands in launching a series of new virtual reality (VR) simulation games designed to foster proper attitude towards consumption with the use of credit cards, while raising the participant’s awareness of fraud prevention through a gamified learning experience.
 
The VR simulation games feature two key themes: “Be a Smart Credit Card User”, covering basic knowledge of credit card usage and concepts of rational consumption, and “Beware of Credit Card Fraud”, simulating the scenarios of fraudsters using phishing links and fraudulent calls purporting to be from bank staff. Through the four simulated scenarios (see Annex (Chinese only)) – “Credit card ABC”, “Responsible use of credit cards”, “Beware of phishing links”, and “Beware of fraudulent calls” – the games offer an immersive and interactive experience with vivid decision-making prompts, real-life role play, and simple yet entertaining mini-games with over a hundred interactive options, equipping persons with special needs and senior citizens with the knowledge and skill to use credit cards responsibly and identify scams. Participants can use the VR headsets and handheld controllers for an immersive first-person experience.
 
The Council and the HKMA recently organised an event at Fortress Hill Methodist Secondary School for students to try out the games for the first time. The Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, Ms Gilly Wong, said, “Consumers with special needs and some senior consumers often have limited knowledge of credit cards. The Council is delighted to collaborate with the HKMA in developing this innovative VR simulation game, allowing them to experience overspending and fraud scenarios firsthand while learning how to respond accordingly. Since credit cards serve both as a payment tool and a loan instrument, it is crucial for consumers to establish proper values and knowledge about responsible usage early on. This VR game will be distributed to social welfare organisations and special schools across Hong Kong, to be used in consumer education workshops and activities for promoting responsible credit card usage and fraud prevention.”
 
     Deputy Chief Executive of the HKMA Mr Arthur Yuen, said, “Credit card payments are a common means of transaction, yet they are often exploited by fraudsters as a tool for deception. Members of the public who are not vigilant may fall into the trap of scams. We hope to use interactive games to convey the messages on the proper use of credit cards, as well as the importance of guarding against credit card scams in a simple and vivid way, thereby assisting members of the public to use credit cards with peace of mind and enhancing their awareness of anti-scam measures.”
 
The HKMA launched the Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 2.0 (the Charter 2.0) in collaboration with the Hong Kong Association of Banks last year, to assist the public in guarding against credit card scams and other digital frauds. The Council remains committed to consumer education and safeguarding consumer rights. As a supporting organisation of the Charter 2.0, it will continue to enhance public awareness of fraud prevention and self-protection ability.
 
Since late 2020, the Council has been running the Support Programme for Persons with Special Needs, aimed at promoting consumer education among persons with special needs, including those with autism spectrum disorder, mild intellectual disability, and common mental disorder, in identifying unscrupulous trade practices and scams. The Programme provides a range of educational resources for frontline social workers, teachers and caregivers, including training handbooks, game cards, case study videos and posters, and easy-to-read guides. In 2023, the Programme also piloted its first VR educational tool focusing on the unscrupulous sales tactics of beauty and fitness centres. To date, the Programme has organised more than 180 consumer education sessions for over 4 600 participants from 80 social welfare organisations, self-help groups and special schools.
 
A desktop version of the credit card VR simulation games is also available. Members of the public may visit the websites of the Consumer Council and the HKMA for relevant information.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, attended the 20th anniversary celebration ceremony of Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) in Zhuhai this afternoon (April 14).
 
     Co-founded by Beijing Normal University and Hong Kong Baptist University, BNBU was the first university jointly established by the higher education sectors of the Mainland and Hong Kong. At the ceremony, Dr Choi expressed her heartfelt congratulations to BNBU. She said that BNBU adopts the undergraduate curriculum and teaching evaluation system of Hong Kong higher education institutions, setting a good example for joint provision of education services between the Mainland and Hong Kong.
 
     Dr Choi noted that several Hong Kong higher education institutions have taken a proactive approach in providing education services in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Mainland cities, and strengthening co-operation by realising complementary advantages with their Mainland counterparts through the establishment of university alliances. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG) supports Hong Kong higher education institutions to leverage the characteristics and competitive edges of Hong Kong’s higher education sector through formation of multilateral and cross-discipline partnerships in the GBA Mainland cities. By doing so, favourable conditions for scientific research and development, knowledge transfer and commercialisation can be created to facilitate research activities of high academic standard in the GBA.
 
     She added that the HKSARG will continue to actively participate in and foster higher education co-operation in the GBA by assisting Hong Kong higher education institutions in exploring more flexible and innovative operation models. The HKSARG will also promote closer collaboration between Hong Kong higher education institutions and their campuses in the GBA Mainland cities, and facilitate the flow of faculty members and students, with a view to nurturing outstanding talent for the country’s development through synergising the complementary academic structures and facilities of Hong Kong and Mainland campuses. 
 
     Dr Choi also toured the various facilities of BNBU to understand the development situation of the campus.
 
     She subsequently met the Mayor of the Zhuhai Municipal Government, Mr Wu Zetong; the Director of the Zhuhai Municipal Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Bureau, Ms Huang Cui; the Director of the Zhuhai Municipal Education Bureau, Mr Xi Enmin, and other officials to exchange views on education issues.
 
     Dr Choi returned from Zhuhai to Hong Kong this evening.