South Korea's Nuclear-Powered Hydrogen Facility: A Leap Towards Clean Energy
Key Ideas
  • South Korea is embarking on constructing its first nuclear-powered hydrogen production facility in Sinam-ri, Ulju-gun, showcasing progress in clean energy goals.
  • The 10 MW plant, using electricity from nearby nuclear plants, will produce over four tons of clean hydrogen daily, emitting less than four kg of CO₂ per kg of hydrogen.
  • The project aligns with creating a hydrogen-specialized industrial complex in Uljin County, targeting 300,000 tons of clean hydrogen annually by 2030.
  • This initiative signifies a significant step towards achieving sustainable energy practices and reducing carbon emissions in South Korea.
South Korea is poised to launch its inaugural nuclear-powered hydrogen production facility in Sinam-ri, Ulju-gun, commencing construction in October. The plant, a venture by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), is slated to be operational by March 2027. Powered by electricity from nearby Gori and Saeul nuclear plants, the 10 MW facility aims to yield more than four tons of hydrogen daily through low-temperature electrolysis. Notably, the hydrogen output will qualify as clean hydrogen, with an emission rate of under four kilograms of CO₂ per kilogram of hydrogen. Ahn Ji-young from the Korea Energy Economics Institute emphasized that hydrogen meeting greenhouse gas emission criteria can attain clean hydrogen certification. This development also bolsters the establishment of a larger hydrogen-focused industrial complex in Uljin County, with a goal to annually produce 300,000 tons of clean hydrogen. The initial phase will utilize 500 MW of nuclear electricity to yield 70,000 tons, projecting a production cost of 3,500 won/kg. The full-scale operation is anticipated to be achieved by 2030. The project marks a significant stride towards South Korea's objectives of integrating sustainable energy solutions and curbing carbon footprints, showcasing a positive outlook for the country's clean energy future.
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