As prolonged heat waves and tropical nights continue, this summer's peak power demand is expected to surpass previous records. The government is focusing on assessing power generation, transmission, and additional reserve resources in line with the normalization of industrial operations after the vacation season.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced that a 'Summer Power Supply Review Meeting' will be held on the morning of August 7 at the headquarters of the Korea Power Exchange in Naju, South Jeolla Province, chaired by Minister Kim Sung-hwan.
This meeting is being convened in response to nationwide heat waves and tropical nights caused by the simultaneous influence of the North Pacific High and the Tibetan High, as power demand is expected to rise significantly after the summer vacation period.
The government and relevant power agencies will share forecasts for power supply and demand this month, review the operational status of power generation and transmission facilities, assess emergency response systems, and check the status of additional reserve resources.
Power authorities anticipate that power demand will gradually increase starting in the second week of this month as industrial operations recover following the end of summer vacations. They do not rule out the possibility that prolonged heat waves and tropical nights could exceed the all-time peak power demand of 97.1 GW recorded on August 20, 2024.
However, the government has secured supply capacity in anticipation of a potential peak power demand of up to 98.8 GW this summer, as outlined in the 'Summer Power Supply Outlook and Measures' announced in June. They expect to maintain stable reserve management unless there is an unexpected surge in demand or a series of failures in power generation facilities.
Relevant power agencies are continuously inspecting facilities vulnerable to heat waves and heavy rainfall to minimize equipment failures. They have also activated emergency recovery systems to ensure rapid restoration in the event of equipment malfunctions.
Minister Kim stated, "In this heat wave, we must analyze and predict changes in weather and power demand rather than relying solely on past experiences. We need to be able to respond immediately to situations that exceed our prediction range." He added, "I will ensure that response procedures for demand surges and generator failures operate smoothly on-site."
He emphasized, "Stable power supply can only be sustained when the safety of on-site workers is guaranteed. We will discourage excessive outdoor work and ensure that safety guidelines for heat waves, including adequate rest and adjustments to working hours, are strictly followed in the field."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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