Inferno at Taiwan's First Super Battery Plant Injures 16

A massive explosion occurred at the San Yuan Energy Technology battery factory in Kaohsiung's Xiaogang District, Taiwan today (Monday) at around 5:04 AM. This facility, noted as Taiwan’s first “super battery factory,” produces lithium-ion batteries, primarily for electric vehicles and aerospace applications. The explosion caused significant disruption, with thick smoke emitted and air quality concerns prompting authorities to advise residents in 13 nearby neighborhoods to stay indoors and close windows due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and trace amounts of hydrogen fluoride, an irritant affecting the respiratory system, skin, and eyes.

At least 16 people were injured, including 12 factory workers and 4 firefighters, with injuries reported as abrasions and minor burns. All were hospitalized for treatment. The Kaohsiung Fire Department responded swiftly, deploying 46 vehicles, 91 firefighters, and a fire robot to control the blaze, which was eventually contained. The Kaohsiung Environmental Protection Bureau detected high PM2.5 levels but no toxic gases or hazardous chemicals, though the factory faces fines between NT$100,000 and NT$5 million (US$3,420 to US$171,000) for violating the Air Pollution Control Act due to improper management.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, with some unverified speculation on platforms like X suggesting possible sabotage, though no official confirmation supports this claim. The factory, operated by San Yuan Energy Technology (also referred to as Molicel, a subsidiary of Taiwan Cement Corporation), is a significant player in high-capacity lithium-ion battery production. The incident did not disrupt operations at Kaohsiung International Airport, despite its proximity.