S Korea plans shift to renewables, but coal, nuclear to remain strong

Seoul

SOUTH Korea aims to expand the share of renewables and also natural gas in its fuel mix to gradually cut back its high dependence on coal and nuclear power over the 15 years to 2031, the energy ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry's new draft proposal - an adjustment to its power supply plan for 2017-2031 - reflects growing domestic calls for better air quality and more stringent nuclear safety.

Despite efforts to boost renewables and natural gas, however, South Korea's power generation mix will remain dominated by nuclear and …