Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday emphasized the need for a next-generation power grid to transition the country's power supply towards renewable energy. "Energy transition has become an essential task," Lee stated during a meeting with senior presidential aides, highlighting the urgency of renewable energy supply alongside advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee directed the government to devise strategies for a power grid that reduces inefficiencies in long-distance power transmissions while integrating advanced AI technology. The presidential office announced plans to transform South Jeolla Province into a central hub for this initiative, given its potential for renewable energy supply.

Kim Yong-beom, the presidential chief of staff for policy, revealed in a press briefing that the government intends to develop industrial complexes for renewable energy microgrids by leveraging existing steel and petrochemical industrial sites in the region. Next year, approximately 200 billion won (US$143 million) will be allocated for a pilot project to create a next-generation power grid. This project will involve constructing microgrids at the region's university, airport, and military units, and interconnecting them.

The presidential official also mentioned that President Lee's vision includes cultivating the energy industry to parallel the chip industry, ultimately aiming to export electricity technology and products.