South Korea is installing energy storage

Is South Korea a powerhouse in the energy storage system industry?

South Korea has set an ambitious goal to rise alongside the United States and China as one of the top three powerhouses in the global energy storage system (ESS) industry by 2036. The nation plans to capture 35% of the rapidly growing global ESS market, aiming to revitalize its currently stagnant domestic ESS industry.

Will South Korea install 540 megawatts of battery energy storage systems?

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy unveiled plans for a nationwide tender to install 540 megawatts of battery energy storage systems (BESS), marking the country's first major government-led deployment of its kind. The project is part of a broader effort to modernize South Korea’s power grid and support the transition to renewable energy.

Which energy storage solutions are used in South Korea?

In South Korea, various energy storage solutions are used, including pumped hydro, electrochemical batteries, and others. Depending on the energy storage technology and delivery characteristics, an ESS can serve many roles in the electricity market.

Does South Korea have a battery storage system?

In terms of battery storage system deployment, South Korea stands among the global leaders. By the end of 2022, the cumulative installed capacity of battery storage in the country had reached an impressive 4.1 gigawatts. In October 2023, the South Korean government unveiled the Korean Energy Storage Systems (ESS) industry development strategy.

Are South Korean companies investing in energy storage systems?

Less than a decade ago, South Korean companies held over half of the global energy storage system (ESS) market with the rushed promise of helping secure a more sustainable energy future. However, a string of ESS-related fires and a lack of infrastructure had dampened investments in this market.

Does South Korea have a battery industry?

But South Korea’s battery industry faces mounting pressure from China, whose manufacturers, led by CATL, currently account for nearly 90 percent of global energy storage battery capacity. CATL expanded its footprint in January by establishing a South Korean subsidiary, signaling an aggressive push into the local market.