South Korea eyes 20% renewables share by 2030

South Korea aims to lift the share of renewables in its total power mix to 20% by 2030 under a new plan to cut dependence on coal and nuclear power.

The Asian country will bet on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and renewable energy, mainly by investing in wind and solar projects, and fight to lower its greenhouse gas emissions by 26% from business-as-usual (BAU) levels and reduce fine dust levels by 62% by 2030.

The new goals are part of the country’s 2017-2031 energy roadmap, announced by the government last week. "While past plans were set with a focus on a stable power supply and economic efficiency, the latest plan puts more emphasis on issues related to the environment and safety," the ministry of trade, industry and energy said. Safety concerns are growing after several strong earthquakes hit the southeastern region this and last year.

At present, South Korea sources 30% of its total power from nuclear energy, while 37.5% comes from coal. The share of renewables is only 6.2%. The government will work to shut down its 10 oldest nuclear reactors by 2030 and close several coal power facilities. The targeted 2030 mix, apart from 20% renewables, includes 36.1% coal, 23.9% nuclear and 18.8% LNG.

The new energy plan is expected to be confirmed after a public hearing planned for December 26.

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