Nestled in the mountains of Datong Township, Yilan County, the Qingshui Geothermal Park stands as a remarkable symbol of Taiwan’s growing commitment to sustainable energy and environmental innovation. Combining elements of science, ecology, and tourism, this park showcases how geothermal energy, a clean renewable resource derived from the Earth’s internal heat, can coexist harmoniously with nature and community life.
The Qingshui area is located within Taiwan’s geothermal belt, an active zone shaped by the interaction of the Eurasian and Philippine Sea tectonic plates. Beneath the forested slopes of Datong Township, groundwater is naturally heated by magma activity, creating underground reservoirs of hot water and steam. For decades, locals knew the Qingshui region for its bubbling springs and the faint scent of sulfur rising from the earth — a sign of the powerful geothermal forces below.
Taiwan’s First Modern Geothermal Power Plant
In the 1980s, the government first attempted to tap into this potential by drilling test wells for electricity generation. However, due to limited technology and high costs, those early efforts were suspended. It was not until recent years — when clean energy became a national priority — that the project was revived.
In 2021, the Qingshui Geothermal Power Plant officially began operations, becoming Taiwan’s first modern geothermal power facility. The plant, developed by the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, represents a major step forward in the nation’s renewable energy strategy. Using advanced binary-cycle technology, the plant can convert underground heat into electricity without releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
The surrounding site, now known as the Qingshui Geothermal Park, was developed not only as a power facility but also as an educational and ecological park. Visitors can tour the area to learn about geothermal science, sustainable energy systems, and environmental protection. Observation decks, interactive exhibits, and walking paths allow guests to see steam vents and hot water pools up close while understanding how geothermal energy is produced safely and efficiently.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Qingshui Geothermal Park is its emphasis on environmental balance. Instead of being an industrial zone, the park integrates green design principles to minimize its ecological footprint. The power plant itself is compact and discreet, surrounded by natural vegetation. Waste heat from the system is repurposed for educational demonstrations and local agricultural projects, showcasing the versatility of geothermal energy.
Additionally, the government and researchers have worked closely with local residents to ensure that the park benefits the community. The project has created jobs for Yilan locals and generated interest in eco-tourism, attracting visitors who want to experience both natural beauty and scientific innovation.
Beyond its technological significance, Qingshui Geothermal Park has become a popular destination for tourists and students. The site offers guided tours, multimedia exhibits, and workshops explaining how geothermal power is produced. Outdoor areas include steam vents, mineral ponds, and geological formations that give visitors a firsthand look at the Earth’s energy in motion.
Nearby attractions, such as Qingshui Waterfall, Datong hot springs, and the Yilan mountains, make the park a convenient stop for eco-travelers exploring eastern Taiwan. The integration of science education, scenic beauty, and sustainable development has helped position Qingshui as a model for green tourism in Taiwan.
The success of the Qingshui Geothermal Park demonstrates that renewable energy can coexist with nature and community development. As Taiwan aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, geothermal projects like Qingshui will play an important role in diversifying the island’s energy sources and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Moreover, the park serves as a valuable research site for scientists studying geothermal systems, energy storage, and sustainable engineering. Its success has inspired new exploration projects in other regions, including Taitung, Hualien, and Nantou.
The Qingshui Geothermal Park in Yilan is more than just a power plant — it is a symbol of Taiwan’s environmental consciousness, scientific progress, and harmonious coexistence with nature. By transforming natural geothermal resources into clean energy and educational opportunities, Taiwan has turned a once-quiet valley into a beacon of sustainability.
Visitors who come to Qingshui not only witness the Earth’s natural power but also experience a vision of the future — one where innovation and ecology thrive together. In the heart of Yilan’s green mountains, the Qingshui Geothermal Park shines as a testament to Taiwan’s resilience and its unwavering pursuit of a cleaner, brighter tomorrow.