Development of Renewable Energy Using Water: Achieving National Carbon Neutrality

In recognition of its contributions to the renewable energy industry, Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water) received a commendation from the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy at the 2024 Korea Energy Awards.

On the 19th, it was announced that the award was given to K-water for its efforts in developing, distributing, and expanding renewable energy using water, thereby contributing to national carbon neutrality and industrial advancement.

Since starting with the Soyang River Dam hydropower in 1973, K-water has been leading the development and supply of clean energy solutions like hydropower, hydrothermal energy, green hydrogen, floating solar power, and tidal power, making it the number one renewable energy company in the nation. It operates and manages energy facilities with a capacity of about 1,380 MW, spearheading the transition to low-carbon energy in response to the climate crisis.

Starting with a direct power purchase agreement (PPA) with Naver for a 2.3 MW small hydropower plant at Yongdam in December 2023, K-water is actively utilizing its renewable energy resources to support companies in achieving carbon neutrality and fulfilling RE100 commitments, thereby directly enhancing the nation’s export competitiveness.

Moreover, K-water is working to expand renewable energy industries through various distribution support projects for technologies like hydrothermal energy and research and development collaborations with enterprises.

Yun Seok-dae, president of K-water, expressed his honor at receiving recognition for the organization’s leadership in the low-carbon energy transition. He stated, “As a representative renewable energy institution of Korea, we are very honored to be recognized for our efforts in leading the low-carbon energy transition. We will continue to expand the development and supply of eco-friendly energy using water, and do our best to contribute to national greenhouse gas reduction and the realization of global carbon neutrality.”