Samsung and SK Hynix: Path cleared for direct construction of transmission lines in Yongin
The National Assembly has passed a power-grid 3law allowing private companies to build transmission lines. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix can now directly build the transmission lines needed for the Yongin semiconductor cluster, while KEPCO will operate them once construction is complete.
The National Assembly’s Climate, Energy, Environment and Labor Committee19processed power-grid-related legislation, known as the Power Grid 3The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment25announced the main provisions of the legislation. Its key measure is to expand eligibility to carry out national backbone power-grid construction projects from Korea Electric Power Corporation to private companies.
Until now, KEPCO has had an exclusive role in domestic transmission-line projects. KEPCO recovers the cost of building transmission lines through electricity bills. The new system will expand the entities responsible for construction while retaining this structure.
Power generators or companies that consume large amounts of electricity, such as semiconductor firms, can build transmission lines directly if they determine they are needed. Companies can carry out every stage of a project, from site selection, environmental impact assessments, implementation plans and land acquisition to design and construction. For example, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix can now directly build the transmission lines needed for the Yongin semiconductor cluster.
To allay concerns about privatizing the power industry, the transmission grid will be transferred to Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) for operation once construction is complete. The government said KEPCO’s long-term plan for transmission and substation facilities will remain unchanged. The implementation method is build-and-transfer: the facilities will be handed over to KEPCO after construction.
The passage of the bill has institutionally allowed companies to take the lead in building infrastructure. However, procedures such as environmental impact assessments and consultations with residents will still be required. The specific implementation schedule and detailed regulations will be finalized through additional administrative procedures.
Sources: 뉴시스 경제
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