Kim Sung-hwan, the Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment, stated on October 6 that the power supply needed for the semiconductor cluster in Honam is feasible. He noted that experts and Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) have assessed that the 4GW semiconductor plants being built in Honam can be sufficiently powered by electricity generated in the region.
During a National Assembly audit of the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, Kim responded to inquiries about the power supply for the Honam semiconductor cluster. Democratic Party lawmaker Shin Jeong-hoon argued that the electricity produced in Honam exceeds local consumption and a significant amount is transmitted outside or controlled in output, asserting that the region can adequately support the semiconductor industry’s power needs.
In response, Kim emphasized that the power generation capacity in Jeonnam, which includes renewable energy and nuclear power, is sufficient to meet the demands of the semiconductor industry.
Addressing concerns about water shortages associated with power supply, Kim clarified that the Honam region has historically lacked industrial demand, leading to most water from the Yeongsan and Seomjin rivers being used for agricultural or river maintenance purposes. He explained that the perceived water shortage stemmed from a lack of industrial infrastructure rather than an actual scarcity of water.
He added, “Considering the new industrial demand from the Honam semiconductor sector, the projected power of 6.3GW and water supply of 650,000 tons are entirely feasible. We will ensure that preparations proceed without any issues.”
In a follow-up inquiry, People Power Party lawmaker Lee Jong-bae raised questions about the actual power supply capacity, the variability of renewable energy, and the capacity of energy storage systems (ESS). Kim responded that a significant portion of the electricity produced in Honam has been supplied to the metropolitan area, with approximately 3 to 5GW generated but not utilized locally.
He further explained that the long-term goal is to ensure that power generated in a region is used locally, stating, “The electricity that has been used in the metropolitan area will now be available for use in Honam.”
Regarding concerns that increased electricity usage in Honam could disrupt power supply to the metropolitan area, Kim outlined plans to address this by expanding renewable energy in the metropolitan area and utilizing power from Shin Hanul Units 3 and 4, as well as from the East Coast region.
Kim reiterated, “Electricity should be gathered from across the country and distributed as needed, but it must be used appropriately at the right times. Experts have analyzed that there will be no significant issues in supplying the current 4GW to meet the power demand in Honam.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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