Green energy technology was named the top development priority by Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou on Wednesday, with Solar and LED technologies highlighted as two areas where the island has potential to lead.

Green energy technologies have become a popular target. Governments of U.S., Germany and Japan all have listed clean environment technologies as key development fields and have invested to promote the energy saving devices including solar panels.

There are several solar panel providers in Taiwan which have been developed for years, including Motech Industries and E-Ton Solar. LED makers including Epistar and Everlight Electronics have also sprouted on the island.

Taiwan’s clean energy-related industries had a production value of  US$4.7 billion in 2008, Ma said, and the figure is expected to rise to US$14 billion by 2012 from government.

Conferences have been held between Chinese officials and Taiwan groups for the promotion of LED products including LED street lights in public places, which could be an opportunity for the LED industry in Taiwan.