In response to potential energy disruptions amid prolonged tensions in the Middle East, South Korea announced plans to accelerate nuclear reactor restarts currently undergoing maintenance and to consider increasing coal-fired power generation, local media reported.

The government aims to bring Shin Wolsong Unit 1 and Kori Unit 2 back online within this month. Additionally, Hanbit Unit 6, Hanul Unit 3, along with Wolsong Units 2 and 3, are scheduled to resume operations by mid-May. If necessary, the operational rate of coal-fired power plants may also be increased.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment on March 11, Minister Kim Sung-hwan chaired a meeting at the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)'s South Seoul Headquarters to review energy strategies in light of the Middle East situation.

While acknowledging that international oil and gas prices have jumped recently, the Ministry noted that the effect on domestic electricity rates has so far been limited due to a time lag in market reflection.

However, it warned that sustained high prices or any disruption to liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports would inevitably impact the power market in South Korea.

As of 2024, nuclear power accounted for 31.7% in Korea's power generation mix, coal 28.1%, gas 28.1%, renewables 9%, and oil and others 3.2%. Given the substantial share of gas, a spike in LNG prices without adjustments to the power mix would cast a shadow over the domestic market.

Consequently, the government's first step is to boost nuclear power generation. Fifteen reactors with a combined capacity of 16.45 GW are operational currently. The plan is to add six more units by restarting those undergoing maintenance.

The ministry confirmed that restarts will proceed promptly as long as they do not compromise system stability and safety, particularly during low-demand periods.

Should LNG supplies be constrained, the government is prepared to increase coal-fired power use. Under current seasonal fine dust management rules, which run until the end of March, coal-fired plants are restricted to 80% output on weekdays, with some units halted on weekends.

In an emergency, these restrictions would be relaxed. The ministry indicated that the operating rate of coal power would be raised during times when concerns over yellow dust and fine dust are minimal.

To shield consumers from rising international energy prices, the government plans to review measures aimed at curbing electricity rate increases.

It also intends to expedite the implementation of this year's budget for renewable energy expansion and related loan programs. The ministry emphasized that accelerating the deployment of renewables, particularly solar power, is a fundamental long-term solution to the current energy challenges.