Construction of two nuclear power plants is slated for completion in 2037 and 2038. Shown are Shin-Hanul nuclear reactors Nos. 1 and 2 in Uljin-gun County, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. (Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power)

By Margareth Theresia

Construction of two nuclear power plants is slated for completion by 2037 and 2038.

Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment Kim Sungwhan on Jan. 26 told a briefing at Government Complex-Sejong in Sejong that the project will proceed as planned under the 11th basic plan for electricity supply and demand.

The venture will begin with an evaluation and selection process by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power spanning five to six months. Construction permits will be finalized in the early 2030s, with completion expected in 2037 and 2038 and grid integration thereafter.

In two discussions on government policy and two public opinion polls, renewable energy and nuclear power were both mentioned as resources needing expansion. Over 80% of respondents said nuclear energy is necessary, while 60% backed plans to build more nuclear plants, indicating strong public support for a return to nuclear power.

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment will focus on maximizing operational efficiency as well as expanding power generation facilities. To this end, the plan is to expand energy storage systems and pumped storage hydroelectricity to supplement intermittent generation of renewable energy due to the weather.

The idea is to resolve the rigidity of nuclear power plants through measures such as flexible operations that adjust output according to demand.

"We must reduce carbon emissions in all sectors to respond to the climate crisis," Minister Kim said. "We will cut our dependence on fossil fuels while firmly pursuing power operations focused on renewable and nuclear energy."

margareth@korea.kr