South Korean tech sectors seek new energy solutions for semiconductors and AI

New proposals and business expansions are targeting the growing energy demands of South Korea’s high-tech sectors. The Gyeonggi Research Institute has suggested the phased development of a 1,000MW hydrogen fuel cell power complex near the Yongin National Semiconductor Industrial Complex. This initiative aims to provide a stable, decentralized power supply to support the massive energy needs of the semiconductor mega-cluster, which is expected to require over 10GW of power. The proposal outlines a three-stage plan to expand capacity from 300MW by 2030 to 1,000MW by 2042, utilizing clean hydrogen to reduce carbon emissions and alleviate pressure on the national power grid.

Simultaneously, LS Cable & System is expanding its business into the design and development of AI data center (AIDC) power infrastructure. By joining the ‘AI Factory Frontier’ consortium, the company aims to offer integrated solutions including power, communication, cooling, and architectural design. A key component of this strategy is the application of superconducting systems, which can transmit large amounts of power at medium voltage (23kV) comparable to high-voltage (154kV) levels. This technology is intended to reduce the need for new high-voltage substations and large-scale transmission facilities, addressing the critical power supply and space constraints faced by AI data centers.