Representatives from South Jeolla Province and Gwangju have announced a public initiative to deliver industrial electricity at an average rate of 100 won per kWh. This groundbreaking project targets RE100 companies committed to 100% renewable energy usage.
Key Announcement in Gwangju
Min Hyung-bae, National Assembly member representing Gwangju, revealed the plan during a meeting in Gwangju. He highlighted collaboration between distributed power developers and the Jeonnam-Gwangju Power Corporation to supply electricity at the reduced rate of 100 won per kWh on average.
“RE100 companies can now secure distributed power through ‘distributed full-scale plants’ and services from the Jeonnam-Gwangju Power Corporation,” Min stated.
Current Rates and Innovation
Domestic industrial electricity currently averages 170-180 won per kWh. Experts note that integrating distributed full-scale plants—including ocean power generation, ESS self-generation, base load wholesale power, and base power plant wholesale—enables this lower average cost.
Min emphasized, “This approach avoids relying on national grid electricity. Instead, it directly connects power generation facilities with industrial users.”
Strategic Plans and Policy Needs
The Jeonnam-Gwangju Power Corporation manages renewable energy production, operation, self-generation, usage, and transactions for RE100 firms as a dedicated contractor.
Min added, “Power rate reductions require policy support within 2-3 years through appropriate infrastructure.” He outlined efforts including collaboration with power consumers, simulations of power company operations, and accurate cost assessments for stable outcomes.
“Special legal provisions for Jeonnam-Gwangju administrative cooperation promote distributed energy plant development and renewable energy expansion,” Min explained. “The ‘Jeonnam-Gwangju Power Corporation Establishment Promotion Committee’ will drive intensive management, government proposals, plant development support, and fair pricing for businesses.”
