TAIPEI, April 16 (Reuters) - Taiwan's incoming premier

announced on Tuesday he had appointed a senior executive from

TSMC supplier Topco Scientific as economy

minister, saying he would be tasked with resolving the

persistent problem of stable power supplies.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co ( TSM ) is the world's largest

contract chipmaker and the chip industry is the backbone of

Taiwan's export-dependent economy.

The economy ministry is key to overseeing development and

approving overseas investments, as well as being in charge of

power generation and supplies via utility Taipower.

Cho Jung-tai, who will not take over as premier until

president-elect Lai Ching-te is inaugurated on May 20, told

reporters the chairman of semiconductor material supplier Topco

Group, J.W. Kuo, would be the economy minister, replacing Wang

Mei-hua, a lawyer by training.

Cho lauded Kuo's semiconductor background and his deep

international experience with international supply chains, but

said power supplies would be a top ask for the new minister.

"I will also ask Minister Kuo to use his expertise in the

energy industry to ensure stable power supplies, and further

develop diversified green energy to encourage deep energy

conservation for industry," Cho said.

Taiwan experienced large-scale power outages in both 2021

and 2022, and another one in 2017, sparking criticism that the

government was not doing enough to ensure stable electricity

supplies especially for the crucial chip industry.

Taiwan is investing in renewable energy including wind

power, but is also building new terminals for imported liquefied

natural gas.

Kuo said he would elaborate on his plans once he takes

office.

Topco did not immediately respond to requests for comments

on Kuo's appointment or if he would be stepping down from the

company when he assumes his new government position.