South Korean Climate Minister to Revise AI Data Center Power Demand Forecasts

South Korean Climate and Energy Minister Kim Seong-hwan announced that the government is considering reducing the projected power demand for Artificial Intelligence Data Centers (AIDC) in the upcoming 12th Basic Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand.

During a National Assembly audit on October 26, Minister Kim noted that previous estimates were based on highly optimistic projections from corporations. He stated that many of these demands have not yet been finalized and that the government aims to balance corporate plans with realistic, confirmed needs to avoid overestimation.

The demand forecast for 2040 was previously raised from 4.0GW in April to 11.9GW in August following the announcement of three major mega-projects. However, officials are now discussing excluding approximately 3 to 4GW—equivalent to the capacity of two to three large nuclear power plants—from the plan due to uncertainties.

The 12th Basic Plan, which outlines power supply and demand through 2040, is expected to be reported to the National Assembly between late December and early January. This timeline follows the conclusion of ongoing public discussions regarding the future role of nuclear power.