Honam semiconductor cluster to get underground power lines

South Korea is accelerating plans to construct an underground power transmission line to ensure a stable electricity supply for the burgeoning semiconductor cluster in the Honam region. The Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment announced on Tuesday that the project will leverage existing public land, including areas along roads and rivers, to facilitate the installation.

The most critical task identified is the establishment of a 354-kilovolt transmission network connecting the new ShinJangseong and ShinGwangju substations in northwestern Gwangju to the Gwangju military airport site. This line, estimated to be 20-25 kilometers long, will branch off from the existing grid to serve the semiconductor cluster's power needs.

To expedite the project and mitigate potential resident opposition, the government has opted for an undergrounding method. While this approach can be up to ten times more expensive than traditional overhead transmission towers, it significantly reduces the likelihood of project delays and public outcry. The transmission route will maximize the use of state and local government-owned land, such as along Provincial Road No. 49 and the Hwangnyong River.

The ministry aims to complete the first phase of the transmission line construction by the end of 2029. To foster collaboration among stakeholders, a working group has been formed, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment, the Jeonnam-Gwangju Special City government, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), Samsung Electronics, and SK Hynix. This group will focus on ensuring the timely development of the power grid infrastructure.