South Korea targets 236GW renewable energy capacity by 2040

South Korea is projecting a massive expansion of its renewable energy capacity, aiming to reach 220GW of commercial renewable energy by 2040. When including self-use solar power, the total capacity is expected to reach approximately 236GW, a nearly sixfold increase from current levels.

According to projections presented by the committee overseeing the 12th Basic Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand, solar power will lead this growth. Commercial solar capacity is forecasted to rise from 31GW currently to 155GW by 2040. Wind energy is also expected to see significant growth, with offshore wind projected to reach 45GW and onshore wind reaching 15.5GW by 2040.

This expansion is driven by rising electricity demand from semiconductor manufacturing and AI data centers. To achieve these targets, the annual rate of renewable energy deployment must increase roughly fourfold compared to recent years. Experts noted that success depends on government policy concentration, streamlining permit processes, and addressing public acceptance and electricity cost concerns.