TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — State utility Taipower said Wednesday it will move forward with underground power line projects across central and southern Taiwan, focusing on areas where Typhoon Danas caused widespread blackouts.

A 5.28-kilometer section is planned for the Chianan region as part of a 26.64-kilometer cabling initiative running from Taichung to Pingtung, per CNA. The company said the three-year project aims to strengthen grid resilience in open areas vulnerable to typhoon damage.

Danas knocked down nearly 1,400 utility poles and three high-voltage transmission towers, cutting power to more than 800,000 households nationwide. It has caused over NT$1 billion (US$34 million) in agricultural damage.

Taipower noted it supports local governments’ push for more underground lines but emphasized that financial challenges are forcing it to prioritize essential projects. Fuel costs have surged due to the Russia-Ukraine war, and legislative approval for central government subsidies is still pending.

In the meantime, the company said it will prioritize projects related to new power installations and urgent safety upgrades. These will take precedence over requests not directly tied to supply reliability or public safety.