The South Korean government is set to engage in a three-month public discussion regarding the role of nuclear power in the 12th Basic Plan for Power Supply and Demand. This initiative will not simply ask for opinions on the construction of new nuclear plants but will focus on discussing the role of nuclear energy among various power sources to meet the increasing electricity demand driven by sectors such as semiconductors and electric vehicles.
On September 22, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment reported to the Cabinet meeting on the 'Nuclear Power Public Discussion Plan,' announcing the launch of this public discourse over the next three months.
This public discussion aims to gather citizen input on the role of nuclear power in ensuring stable electricity supply and achieving carbon neutrality from 2026 to 2040, as part of the preparation for the 12th Basic Plan.
The government has decided to move beyond simply asking for support or opposition to new nuclear power plants. Instead, it will comprehensively discuss the role of nuclear energy as one of several alternatives to meet future electricity demands.
A 'Public Discussion Committee for Nuclear Power in the Basic Plan' will be established to lead this process. The committee will consist of a chairperson and up to 11 members. The chairperson will be a neutral figure capable of conducting the discussion fairly, while the members will be selected from individuals who do not have vested interests in nuclear power.
Committee members will be appointed based on recommendations from relevant institutions and organizations in fields such as humanities, social sciences, science and technology, statistics, conflict management, and energy. Experts in nuclear power will participate in a separate advisory committee to provide specialized information on nuclear energy and power supply.
The core of the public discussion will involve deliberative discussions with a representative citizen panel, which will be formed to learn about and debate the role of nuclear power. Public forums with experts and online platforms for gathering citizen opinions will also be conducted to collect feedback from stakeholders.
After this process, the Public Discussion Committee will compile the public's opinions and make recommendations to the Ministry of Climate. The ministry plans to incorporate the results of the public discussion along with a professional review of power supply and grid issues to finalize the 12th Basic Plan.
Previously, the ministry held discussions on forecasts for electricity demand, the expansion of renewable energy, and plans for the early phase-out of coal power by 2040. The finalization of the 12th Basic Plan will take into account the outcomes of the nuclear power public discussion.
Minister of Climate, Energy and Environment Kim Sung-hwan stated, "Through this public discussion, we will listen to a variety of opinions from the public regarding the role of nuclear power and ensure that the results are faithfully reflected in future energy policies."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.