As of 2024, South Korea's electricity consumption relies heavily on fossil energy, with more than half of its electricity coming from coal and gas. Specifically, coal contributes approximately 30% to the electricity mix, closely followed by gas at roughly 29%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources constitute almost 40% of the electricity, dominated by nuclear power, which accounts for slightly more than 30% of the total. Other low-carbon contributors like solar and biofuels add around 5% and 3%, respectively. The country's focus on nuclear energy provides a significant portion of its clean electricity, which is commendable given the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and diminish the impact of climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in South Korea?
However, electricity consumption per person has slightly decreased, reflecting a setback in growth. In 2024, the average consumption dropped to 12016 kWh per person from a previous peak of 12062 kWh per person in 2022. Although overall electricity usage has seen a minor decline, low-carbon electricity generation per capita has notably increased. The latest data shows low-carbon consumption at 4797 kWh per person, surpassing the prior year's peak by 233 kWh. Although this progress in clean energy is positive, the general decline in overall consumption might reveal barriers or challenges hindering the growth trajectory that South Korea should strive to overcome.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, South Korea could expand its existing nuclear infrastructure, as this technology already significantly powers the nation. By looking at successful regions, South Korea can learn from countries like France, which derives around 68% of its electricity from nuclear power, and Slovakia, which generates approximately 62% from the same source. Additionally, the expansion of solar energy represents a promising avenue for South Korea, inspired by regions like Nevada and Lebanon, where solar contributes 27% and 31%, respectively. Embracing these clean energy sources will help South Korea to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels while engaging positively in the global effort to combat climate change.
History
Historically, South Korea has seen fluctuating trends in its nuclear electricity generation. Starting in the mid-1980s, there was consistent growth, with notable increases in 1986, 1987, 1989, and the late 1990s. In particular, more than 13 TWh of nuclear-generated electricity was added in 1999. The early 21st century was marked by modest growth with an impressive increase in 2005. However, significant declines occurred in the mid-2010s, notably between 2013 and 2018. Fortunately, nuclear generation rebounded in 2019 and continued to increase through 2020, with further growth observed in 2022 and again in 2024. These fluctuations underscore the importance of maintaining stability and consistent growth in nuclear power to ensure a reliable and expanding supply of low-carbon electricity for the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.