In recent years, Taiwan has embarked on an ambitious initiative known as Fishery and Electricity Symbiosis, integrating solar energy development with existing fishery infrastructures. The policy seeks to repurpose abandoned fish ponds into photovoltaic (PV) solar farms, addressing both energy needs and environmental concerns. However, as with any large-scale development, the operation in reality has encountered significant challenges and raised complex issues about sustainability, land use, and community impact.

What is fishery and electricity symbiosis?

Fishery and electricity symbiosis refers to the coexistence of fishery activities and solar energy generation in designated zones. It involves converting unused fish ponds into solar farms while ensuring minimal disruption to aquatic ecosystems and maintaining fishery productivity. This concept aims to optimize land use, support renewable energy goals, and mitigate environmental impacts.

How did fishery and electricity symbiosis start?

The policy gained traction in 2020 when the government identified over 20,905 hectares of fish ponds suitable for PV development. Concerns over the environmental impact of traditional ground-mounted solar panels led policymakers to explore alternative uses for agricultural land, particularly in coastal regions traditionally used for aquaculture.

Initially met with skepticism and local resistance, the government implemented the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Mechanism (ESIAM) to address ecological concerns and ensure sustainable development. This mechanism categorizes fish ponds based on ecological sensitivity, designating some as priority zones for development while restricting others due to their ecological importance or community objections.

However, as of now, the government, having made progress in identifying suitable areas and initiating PV installations in designated fishery-PV symbiosis zones, has encountered setbacks, such as regulatory changes affecting the eligibility of agricultural lands for PV use and opposition from local communities and farmers. These challenges have highlighted the need for better coordination between stakeholders and clearer long-term planning to balance economic development with environmental conservation.

Several issues have emerged during the implementation of Fishery and Electricity Symbiosis.

Land use conflicts: The conversion of fish ponds into solar farms has sparked conflicts with local farmers and communities reliant on agricultural and aquaculture practices. Regulatory inconsistencies and the retrospective designation of fish ponds as unsuitable for PV development have led to legal disputes and investment uncertainties. For example, 330 hectares of “illegal fish farms”, which have been in the illegal status for many years, may become a trap when PV investors try to negotiate and acquire fish farms.

Environmental concerns: Critics argue that large-scale PV installations in sensitive coastal ecosystems could disrupt local biodiversity, including migratory bird habitats and marine life. Ensuring minimal ecological impact while maximizing renewable energy production remains a significant challenge. For example, heading north to Yunlinkou Lake, the Qiwu Wetland is known as the Yunlin version of the famous Sun Moon Lake of Taiwan and is also an important flood detention pond. However, after the policy released the land for photovoltaic development, 163 hectares of beautiful wetland and forest disappeared, leaving the locals deplored it.

Chen Jiauhua, who has been involved in the environmental movement for more than 20 years and has once served as a legislative councilor, said: “There are no successful cases of fishery and electricity symbiosis. The Ministry of Agriculture should abolish this policy instead of insisting on continuing with it.”

Community resistance: Despite efforts to engage stakeholders through the ESIAM process, local opposition persists due to concerns over land tenure, economic displacement, and environmental justice. Community trust in government-led development initiatives has been strained, necessitating greater transparency and participatory decision-making.

Policy stability: Rapid policy changes and unclear regulatory frameworks have created uncertainty among investors and developers, hindering the sustainable growth of the solar energy sector. Aligning national renewable energy targets with local land use planning requires consistent policy support and adaptive governance frameworks.

Photovoltaic solar farms at Pingtung.

Areas for improvement

To address these challenges and promote sustainable development under the Fishery and Electricity Symbiosis, the government should consider the following measures.

Enhanced stakeholder engagement: Foster inclusive dialogue with local communities, environmental organizations, and industry stakeholders to address concerns and build consensus on development priorities.

Policy clarity and consistency: Ensure transparent and predictable regulatory frameworks that balance economic development with environmental protection. Provide long-term incentives for PV developers while safeguarding agricultural and ecological landscapes.

Ecological monitoring and mitigation: Implement rigorous monitoring programs to assess the ecological impacts of PV installations. Designate buffer zones and green corridors to protect sensitive habitats and promote biodiversity conservation.

Capacity building and support: Invest in research and development to improve PV technology efficiency and reduce environmental footprint. Provide financial support and technical assistance to farmers transitioning to sustainable agricultural practices within symbiosis zones.

Long-term planning: Develop comprehensive land use plans that integrate renewable energy infrastructure with existing agricultural and aquaculture systems. Prioritize adaptive management strategies that account for climate change resilience and community resilience.

Fishery and electricity symbiosis represents a promising approach to balancing energy security and environmental sustainability in Taiwan. However, its successful implementation hinges on addressing current challenges through collaborative governance, innovative solutions, and a commitment to inclusive and equitable development practices. By prioritizing stakeholder engagement, policy coherence, and ecological stewardship, Taiwan can pave the way for a more resilient and harmonious energy future.

All photos credit: Patricia Cheung

Top photo: Photovoltaic solar farms in Keelung.