The Taiwan Palau solar agreement: Deepening Pacific Ties
Taiwan is advancing its “green port diplomacy” by partnering with Palau to install a unique solar panel system at the nation’s main port, Malakal Port. This initiative is a strategic move to strengthen ties with the Pacific island nation, promote sustainable development, and showcase Taiwanese technological innovation. The project builds on the success of similar installations in Lithuania and Latvia, marking a new phase in Taiwan’s efforts to champion green energy solutions among its diplomatic allies and partner countries.
A New Chapter in Energy Transformation for Palau with the Taiwan Palau solar agreement
Taiwan is taking its “green port diplomacy” a step further in Palau. A memorandum of understanding signed in February 2025 outlines a plan to install a 300-kilowatt solar power system at Malakal Port, located in Palau’s capital, Koror. What makes this project particularly innovative is its use of colored solar panels, which can be designed to double as cultural or advertising displays—a perfect blend of function and form for a nation reliant on tourism.
This initiative represents what Taiwanese officials call a “new chapter of energy transformation,” combining power generation with cultural imagery and bilateral cooperation. Once operational, the system is expected to generate approximately 400,000 kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, significantly helping Palau reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels and lower its carbon emissions.
This port project is not an isolated effort. It follows the successful installation of a solar photovoltaic system at the Palau National Aquaculture Center in September 2024, a project that included hands-on training for local students and teachers. This demonstrates a deep, ongoing commitment to not just providing technology but also building local capacity. The specialized solar panel manufacturing process required for these decorative panels highlights Taiwan’s advanced capabilities in the renewable energy sector.
A Proven Model: Green Port Projects in Europe thanks to Taiwan Palau solar agreement
The green port project in Palau follows a successful blueprint established in Europe. In 2023, Taiwan completed the installation of solar power systems at two key Baltic ports: the Port of Klaipeda in Lithuania and the Ventspils Freeport in Latvia.
The Klaipeda project, completed in June 2023, features a 500-kilowatt system that generates around 600,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. The Ventspils project, finished in September 2023, has a capacity of 200 kilowatts and produces about 240,000 kilowatt-hours annually. Both initiatives have been highly effective in reducing the carbon footprints of their respective ports and have been instrumental in strengthening Taiwan’s diplomatic and economic relationships with Lithuania and Latvia.
Taiwan’s Strategy of Soft Power and Sustainable Development through the Taiwan Palau solar agreement
Taiwan’s green port initiatives are a core component of its broader commitment to renewable energy and a savvy exercise in soft power. By sharing its expertise and technology, Taiwan strengthens its international relations while actively contributing to global environmental sustainability.
In recent years, Taiwan has emerged as a global leader in solar energy, investing heavily in the infrastructure and technology behind it. This includes mastering the basics of solar panel manufacturing and securing supply chains for essential solar panel raw materials. The country’s ability to deploy sophisticated solar panel manufacturing machines allows it to produce innovative solutions like the colored panels planned for Palau.
The success of these projects has spurred Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) to plan for further expansion. Similar initiatives are being considered for other partner countries, including the Philippines, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, demonstrating a clear, forward-looking global strategy.
By providing renewable energy solutions, Taiwan is helping its allies enhance their energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and build more resilient economies. The solar panel project at Malakal Port is a powerful symbol of this partnership, promising to deliver clean energy while celebrating Palauan culture. As Taiwan continues to expand these efforts, it solidifies its role as a key player in promoting a sustainable future for all.
To learn more about the technology and investment behind such groundbreaking projects, explore our free e-course on solar panel manufacturing.
