The SpratlyIslands – known as Nansha in Chinese -- are a disputed island chain located about 1,120 kilometers southwest of Taiwan. They are situated about halfway between Vietnam and the Philippines. The group of more than a hundred islands and reefs is believed rich in oil and natural gas.
Right now, Taiwan has effective administration over one island in the chain, called TaipingIsland. Taiwan’s coast guard is responsible for defending TaipingIsland, while the Kaohsiung City Government is responsible for its administration.
While Taiwan has effective administration over TaipingIsland, the Spratlys are also claimed in whole or in part by Mainland China, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam.
In December, 2011, Taiwan's coast guard inaugurated a new solar power system on the island that will meet as much as 17% of its energy needs. The move shows Taiwan's "smart power"—solar technology—while also serving to cement Taipei's sovereignty over the disputed island.
Recently, China has expanded facilities on a South China Sea island. To counter China’s move, Taiwan is now constructing a port on Taiping Island, which is expected to be completed in late 2015. Taiwan is also considering stationing armed vessels permanently on the island.