Signal KEEI projects Korean nuclear generation to grow 3.5 percent a year to 2030 as two new reactors enter service

Summary

Nuclear power generation in Korea is projected to increase by 3.5 percent a year from 2025 to 2030. The main driver is the entry of two new reactors, Saeul units 3 and 4, which begin operating in 2026 and add to installed capacity. Six ageing reactors are expected to undergo maintenance during the period so that they can continue operating beyond their original terms. In 2029 in particular, this maintenance is expected to reduce nuclear output temporarily. Nuclear capacity follows the 11th Basic Plan for electricity supply and demand, so the institute keeps it unchanged across its growth scenarios. Together with renewables, nuclear is one of the sources whose share rises, reaching 15.1 percent of primary energy in 2030.