Kim Seong-hwan, the Minister of Climate Energy and Environment, projected that more than 10 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity will be added annually starting next year. He anticipates a rapid increase in solar energy deployment to achieve the goal of 100GW by 2030.
During a press conference on October 1 at the Government Sejong Complex, Kim stated, "We aim for 100GW of renewable energy by 2030, but we are currently just shy of 40GW. It is a challenging task to add approximately 60GW more."
He explained that the government is working to enhance the foundation for renewable energy deployment by fundamentally changing distance regulations and the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), as well as increasing the capacity for renewable energy without expanding sunlight income-related laws and transmission networks. He noted that there is a significant amount of capacity waiting for grid connection in the Honam region, which will accelerate solar energy deployment starting next year.
"From next year, we expect at least 10GW of renewable energy to be added," Kim said, adding, "It’s difficult to take off initially, but once we do, we will soar high and far."
The government is preparing a separate electricity rate system that reflects the power consumption characteristics of AI data centers, which currently pay general electricity rates rather than industrial rates.
Kim remarked, "We are considering whether it is appropriate to classify AI data centers as industrial users or to establish a separate rate. We are designing a dedicated rate for general use C."
He continued, "We will design the system considering KEPCO's investment cost issues and the characteristics of AI data centers, ensuring that KEPCO's cost burdens or deficits do not significantly impact the public."
Kim also acknowledged that the achievements in carbon emission reductions over the past year have fallen short of initial targets. He stated, "It is true that we have not reduced carbon emissions as much as we aimed for, and I apologize for that."
The government explained that rising energy prices due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have hindered the acceleration of coal power reduction. However, it maintains its commitment to phasing out coal power by 2040.
Kim emphasized the need to increase renewable energy while reducing coal use, stating, "We must also reduce emissions in industry, construction, and transportation. The increase in overall electricity demand due to rising AI and semiconductor needs is another variable to consider." He added that the government will report to the public early next year on measures that comprehensively reflect these variables while pursuing the carbon reduction targets promised to the international community.
As the Climate Ministry marks its first anniversary, Kim identified the core tasks as addressing the climate crisis, managing electricity demand in the AI era, and ensuring electricity rate competitiveness as part of an 'energy transition.'
He stated, "South Korea is a manufacturing powerhouse, and at the same time, the demand for semiconductors and electricity is rapidly increasing due to the AI revolution. We must tackle the three challenges of responding to the climate crisis, preparing for the AI era, and ensuring electricity rate competitiveness simultaneously to achieve an energy transition."
Kim reiterated the necessity of integrating energy and environmental policies, emphasizing that from the perspective of coexistence between humans and nature, energy and environmental issues should not be seen as separate or opposing challenges. He committed to fulfilling the Climate Ministry's role in addressing the coexistence of humans and nature through maximum communication with experts and civil society.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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