The South Korean government has announced changes to its biomass energy policy, halting support for new biomass power plants and planning a gradual phase-out of subsidies for existing facilities over the next decade. While the move signals a shift in the nation’s energy priorities, it has drawn both praise and criticism for its approach and potential loopholes, reported Hurriyet Daily News
Biomass power, largely generated by burning wood, has been South Korea’s second-largest source of renewable energy. However, the country’s reliance on imported wood pellets has sparked controversy. South Korea is the world’s third-largest importer of biomass fuels, with an Associated Press investigation linking some of these imports from Indonesia to deforestation of intact forests.
The Trade, Industry, and Energy Ministry acknowledged the issues associated with biomass energy. “As the market expanded, various issues emerged. Criticisms regarding forest degradation and carbon emissions associated with biomass power generation persist,” the ministry stated.
Environmental activists and experts have raised concerns about aspects of the revised policy. Hansae Song, program lead at Solutions for Our Climate, a South Korean NGO, told The Associated Press, “While not without caveats, this decision demonstrates that large-scale biomass power has no place in a renewable energy future.”
Despite the policy shift, continued support for domestically produced wood pellets and chips, exemptions for plants under construction or in planning with approved permits, and the slow phase-out timelines for private co-firing facilities have drawn scrutiny.
South Korea’s decision could influence how other countries approach biomass energy as part of their renewable energy transitions. As the world seeks sustainable alternatives, the balance between addressing environmental concerns and meeting energy demands remains a complex challenge.
