Does South Korea need wind energy?

A major enabler for the steady growth of clean energy in the country is wind energy. With a climate and topography perfectly suited for large-scale onshore wind power generation, the government is now looking towards the untapped potential of offshore wind. However, before South Korean wind energy presents meaningful results, there is work to do.

Can South Korea lead the world in offshore wind power?

Moreover, South Korea has the potential to lead the world in offshore wind power if the government and companies work together. Such initiatives are already starting to pop up. The government plans to build an 8.2 GW offshore wind facility and a 6-GW floating wind power complex by 2030. The South Korean wind energy transition will not be seamless.

What makes South Korea's wind energy transition unique?

The US government also announced a 30 GW offshore wind goal by 2030. What makes the South Korean wind energy transition unique, however, is its tremendous potential. The wind sector in the country remains “underdeveloped,” generating just 1% of the country’s electricity in 2020.

Can South Korea's wind energy sector make a difference?

The wind energy sector can become the difference-maker that gives South Korea's renewable energy progress that much-needed boost. The country's vast potential for offshore wind is already starting to attract some of the leading developers in the industry. What remains to be seen is the scale of investments and the speed of the transition.

What is wind power in South Korea?

Wind power is a form of renewable energy in South Korea with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) and particulate matter (PM) emissions caused by coal based power. After two oil crises dating back to the 1970s, the South Korean government needed to transition to renewable energy, which encouraged their first renewable energy law in 1987.

How will South Korea's offshore wind sector grow?

In light of these developments, South Korea’s offshore wind sector is poised for exciting growth, fuelled by a strong commitment to renewable energy. The government is enhancing regulatory frameworks to streamline project approvals and attract investment, aiming to significantly increase offshore wind capacity by 2030.