Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment Invests 201.4 Billion Won in R&D for Energy Transition and Climate Crisis Response

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment will support new energy technology research and development (R&D) projects this year with a total budget of 201.4 billion won to address the climate crisis and promote a sustainable energy transition.

On January 29, the ministry announced on its official website and the Korea Institute of Energy Technology Evaluation and Planning website the implementation plan for this year’s energy technology development projects, as well as the first round of new energy technology development projects, which comprise 70 initiatives with a total budget of 136.9 billion won.

This year’s energy technology development program will focus on three main areas: securing core components for the implementation of an energy superhighway, developing next-generation renewable energy technologies, and establishing a foundation for carbon neutrality R&D.

First, 12.9 billion won will be allocated to the development of key components such as transformers for the energy superhighway, as well as the establishment of AI-based distributed power grid operation systems and related technology development.

To secure next-generation renewable energy technologies, 61.1 billion won will be invested in projects aimed at narrowing the essential technology gap for commercial-scale tandem solar cell modules and offshore wind turbine blades, as well as expanding agrivoltaic solar power and other technology development initiatives.

Yonhap News

To accelerate carbon neutrality, 98.2 billion won will be provided for the development of large-capacity heat pumps, the establishment of a clean hydrogen ecosystem, the advancement of core technologies across the entire nuclear power plant lifecycle, and the localization of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies.

Additionally, 29.2 billion won will be invested in building the foundation for energy R&D, expanding the training of highly skilled personnel, and strengthening follow-up support for outstanding research and development projects.

The ministry stated that for new projects related to international joint research and technology commercialization, future announcements will be made after completing necessary procedures such as consultations with partner countries.

A ministry official said, "We plan to hold business briefings for interested entrepreneurs and researchers on February 5 and 12."

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