Seoul Outlines Push for 30% Nuclear by 2030, and 10 Reactor Exports

South Korea's new government continued President Yoon Suk-yeol's aggressive pro-nuclear push this week, promising to achieve a 30% share of total output for nuclear by 2030, and the sale of 10 reactor exports by then. It also earmarked 400 billion won ($308 million) for small modular reactors, and recommitted to restarting work on the APR1400s at Hanul-3 and -4. "This 30% hinges on the premise that nuclear plants still under construction will achieve normal operation, and that those currently in operation will achieve continued operation," said the Jul. 5 announcement from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. "Moreover, a special act for high-level radioactive waste treatment is in order, possibly installed under the prime minister." These polices will help reduce fossil fuel imports from 81.8% in 2021 to 60% in 2030, the ministry added. South Korea's 24 operating reactors generate 25%-27% of electrical output but seven were slated for permanent closure before 2030 under the previous administration's phase-out policies.