TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Environmental Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) announced Thursday (Jan. 16) that the sixth preliminary environmental impact assessment of the Taiwan Power Company's (Taipower, 台電) Hsieh-ho LNG import terminal (第四天然氣接收站) will occur Friday (Jan. 17), emphasizing that the ministry will not pre-determine the outcome of the assessment.
Peng stressed the need for the assessment process to be "open, fair, and just" and pledged to involve as many experts as possible in the review mechanism. He noted that all development projects impact the environment, and the goal of the assessment is to achieve a win-win situation through avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and compensation.
Peng urged both opposing civic groups and Taipower to present scientific data to persuade the assessment committee, as no single person can decide the outcome. The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) plans to live-stream the assessment, and Peng expressed hope for a smooth proceeding.
Responding to media reports, Peng mentioned that Minister of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) had inquired about the benefits of preserving the algal reef. Peng explained its ecological value and environmental significance, gaining an understanding from Kuo. He underscored the importance of mutual respect and cooperation between cabinet members to truly benefit the people.
