SK Energy's 'Premium Ascon' Approved by Ministry of Environment (Comprehensive)

Reduce Fuel and Electricity Usage by Approximately 70%

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] SK Energy has received government approval for its external project methodology regarding greenhouse gas reduction technology in asphalt concrete. This is expected to positively impact the acceleration of carbon neutrality efforts, the revitalization of related industries, and SK Energy’s ongoing eco-friendly asphalt sales business.

On the 4th, SK Energy announced that its "Medium-Temperature Asphalt Concrete Mixture (Ascon) Production for Fuel and Greenhouse Gas Reduction," the first of its kind developed domestically, has been approved as an external project methodology by the Ministry of Environment. External projects refer to greenhouse gas reduction initiatives carried out outside of the 684 companies subject to the emissions trading scheme allocation. To conduct an external project, approval of the project plan must be obtained according to a methodology approved by the Ministry of Environment.

SK Energy produces three types of asphalt products: "Premium," "Polymer Modified," and "Recycled Dedicated." The product approved this time is the asphalt concrete made from Premium asphalt. The approved medium-temperature Ascon can be produced and applied at 125~135 degrees Celsius, about 30 degrees lower than conventional Ascon, reducing fuel input and electricity usage to approximately 70%. This process can reduce about 6~7 kg of carbon dioxide per ton during asphalt application. By promoting low-temperature paving, it also helps shorten road construction periods and reduce carbon emissions caused by traffic congestion.

SK Energy and Ascon companies expect to significantly reduce carbon emissions by increasing the production and application of medium-temperature Ascon. Sanggu Noh, Head of Strategy and Operations at SK Energy R&S CIC (Refining & Synergy Company-Invested Company), said, "With this approval, we expect to contribute to the revitalization of the domestic medium-temperature Ascon and road paving industry and accelerate the carbon neutrality efforts of related industries."

Meanwhile, SK Energy is accelerating its eco-friendly asphalt business, having announced on October 31 last year plans to expand the domestic eco-friendly asphalt sales ratio for road use from the current 30% level to 100% by 2030.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.