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South Korea Targets 20% Renewable Power by 2030, Phasing Out Coal

South Korea has announced a plan to generate at least 20 percent of its power from renewable sources by 2030, up from 11.4 percent last year. The strategy involves expanding renewable energy capacity to 100 gigawatts, primarily through solar and wind power. To achieve this, the government will phase out 60 coal-fired power plants by 2040 and support green industries and technology development. The plan also includes targets for electric and hydrogen vehicles to make up 40 percent of new car sales by 2030.

Key Points: S. Korea Aims for 20% Renewable Energy by 2030

  • Target 20% renewable power by 2030
  • Expand renewable capacity to 100 gigawatts
  • Shut down 60 coal plants by 2040
  • Boost EV and hydrogen car sales to 40% by 2030
2 min read

S. Korea aims to generate 20 pc of power through renewable energy by 2030

South Korea plans to generate 20% of its power from renewables by 2030, expand capacity to 100GW, and shut down coal plants by 2040.

"We will swiftly implement the energy transition plan to make sure that South Korea remains resilient to external shocks - Climate Minister Kim Sung-whan"

Seoul, April 6

South Korea is targeting at least 20 per cent of power generation through renewable energy by 2030 in a bid to lower its heavy dependence on energy imports and respond to growing power demand sparked by the growth of advanced industries, the climate ministry said on Monday.

Under the plan, reported at a Cabinet meeting, the government aims to expand renewable energy distribution to 100 gigawatts by 2030 to meet the 20 percent goal by fostering the growth of solar power and wind power generation capacity, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment said.

Last year, renewable energy accounted for 11.4 percent of the country's total energy generation, reports Yonhap news agency.

To this end, the government plans to gradually shut down 60 coal-fired power plants by 2040, while promoting the use of renewable energy sources.

It will also foster the growth of green industries by supporting the development of related technologies, including solar power modules, wind power turbines and battery energy storage systems.

In addition, the government will help with major industries' push to transform their business into eco-friendly models, supporting the steel industry's goal to commercialise hydrogen-based reduction iron-making technology by 2037 and the petrochemical industry's plan to electrify its naphtha cracking centres, according to the ministry.

The ministry said it will also work to have 40 percent of new car sales be electric or hydrogen vehicles by 2030, according to the report.

"We will swiftly implement the energy transition plan to make sure that South Korea remains resilient to external shocks, such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East," Climate Minister Kim Sung-whan said in a press release.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good move by South Korea. Reducing dependence on imports is crucial for any nation's energy security. Hope our government is watching and learning. The plan to shut down coal plants by 2040 is a bold step.
A
Aman W
While the intent is good, I hope they have a solid plan for the transition. Shutting down 60 coal plants will impact jobs and grid stability. The 2030 target seems achievable, but the execution will be the real test. Let's see.
S
Sarah B
The focus on green industries and supporting steel/petrochemical sectors to go eco-friendly is smart. It's not just about power generation, but transforming the entire industrial base. India's "Green Hydrogen Mission" is on a similar path.
V
Vikram M
Doubling their renewable share from ~11% to 20% in 6 years is a steep climb. They will need massive investments in wind and solar infrastructure. Interesting that they mention external shocks like the Middle East conflict – a lesson for all oil-importing nations like ours.
K
Kavya N
The 40% target for electric/hydrogen vehicles by 2030 is impressive! 🇮🇳 We are also pushing for EVs, but charging infrastructure needs to keep pace. Global cooperation on these technologies will benefit everyone fighting climate change.

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