TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei’s Environmental Protection Department has built a NT$4 million (US$125,000) solar-powered public toilet in Yangmingshan’s Zhuzihu as part of a citywide upgrade of 72 facilities.

CNA reported Thursday that the department is renovating and redesigning facilities under its management to create cleaner and more accessible spaces. Commissioner Shyu Shyh-shiun (徐世勲) said he aims to make public toilets the most comfortable, clean and respected spaces in the city, in line with international standards and the needs of an aging society.

Near Yuanshan Riverside Park, the renovated Zhongshan No. 14 public toilet was redesigned with white walls and wooden lattice details to blend into the park setting. Shyu said the facility reflects the city’s goal of making public toilets welcoming and valued public spaces, Fount Media reported.

“About 1,000 people use the Zhongshan site each weekend day, many of them exercising or cycling in the park,” he said. The renovation upgraded toilets and sinks and added an extra ventilation window to improve airflow and bring in natural light.

In Zhuzihu’s Dinghu area, the new toilet was constructed at a popular stop for hikers and visitors viewing calla lilies. Officials said the design was intended to blend with the natural landscape while minimizing environmental impact.

Lin Yu-hui (林鈺惠), chief of the department’s Resource Circulation Management Division, said the Zhuzihu facility uses lightweight steel instead of traditional concrete to reduce structural weight and overall utility demand. Solar panels were installed on the roof to generate renewable energy and reduce electricity use.

“The Zhongshan No. 14 renovation cost about NT$2 million, while the Zhuzihu project cost about NT$4 million,” Lin noted. The department will continue renovating other facilities and installing surveillance cameras outside the buildings to prevent littering and vandalism.