South Korea Targets 100 GW Renewable Capacity by 2030

Seoul, South Korea – April 2026 – The government of South Korea has unveiled an ambitious plan to significantly accelerate its energy transition, targeting 100 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, nearly tripling current levels.

The strategy, presented by Kim Seong-hwan, Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment, aims to increase the share of renewables in the country’s electricity mix to 20% by 2030, up from approximately 10.8% in 2025. 

The plan positions solar and wind as the primary drivers of growth, supported by grid modernization and expanded energy storage deployment.

Energy Security Driving Policy Shift

According to Kim Seong-hwan, the initiative is not only about decarbonization but also about strengthening national resilience.

He emphasized the need to build “an energy system that will not be shaken by external shocks,” referencing global geopolitical instability and disruptions to fossil fuel supply chains. 

Currently, fossil fuels still dominate South Korea’s energy mix, with coal and gas accounting for more than half of electricity generation, highlighting the urgency of transition efforts. 

Structural Reforms and Long-Term Vision

The renewable expansion plan aligns with the country’s broader 11th Basic Plan for Long-Term Electricity Supply and Demand, which sets a longer-term target of over 120 GW renewable capacity by 2038. 

In parallel, the government plans to:

• Phase out up to 60 coal-fired power plants by 2040

• Transition from a centralized to a decentralized power system

• Expand energy storage systems (ESS) and flexible resources

• Promote diverse solar deployment models, including industrial, agricultural, and floating PV

Officials from the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment highlighted that grid decentralization and local energy generation will play a critical role in enabling higher renewable penetration.

Investment and Industrial Strategy

The policy also reflects South Korea’s ambition to become a global clean energy manufacturing hub, combining energy security, carbon neutrality, and industrial competitiveness.

Government-backed investments in solar technology and clean energy innovation are expected to support this transition, while creating new opportunities across the renewable value chain.

Global Context

South Korea’s announcement comes amid accelerating global renewable deployment, as countries worldwide respond to climate targets and energy security concerns.

With this latest roadmap, South Korea is positioning itself as a key player in Asia’s clean energy transition, while addressing its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels.