PyPSA-KR: Implementation and analysis of optimal renewable energy strategies for the 2030 midway milestone in the Korean energy system

The Korean energy system is undergoing significant transformation, actively deploying renewable energy sources in response to climate change. The government has set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, compared to 2018 levels. According to the national roadmap released in 2023, the share of renewable energy in electricity generation is expected to exceed 21% by 2030 and 30% by 2036. For instance, over the past decade (i.e., 2013–2023), we made remarkable strides as the total renewable energy installation has increased by 595%, and when considering only solar and wind energy, this figure rises to 1,596%. In this context, accelerating the energy system transition in Korea requires sophisticated modelling tools to investigate efficient system design and evidence-based policy decisions. 

In this study, we developed and validated a Korea-specific energy system model, PyPSA-KR, built upon the PyPSA framework. PyPSA’s key strengths—scalability, visualization, flexibility, and openness—enable the incorporation of high-resolution spatial and temporal data, integration across multiple energy sectors, and the examination of emerging technologies and market structures. By validating the PyPSA-KR model for the Korean power sector, we confirmed its capability to effectively reflect the country’s unique conditions and to analyze optimal capacity expansions and the role of renewable energy in meeting the 2030 midway target.

This model provides a valuable analytical framework for macro-energy research, including scenario exploration that accounts for traditional energy phase-outs, renewable energy expansion strategies, grid reinforcement, and energy storage deployment. By delivering reproducible and transparent results, our study establishes a robust foundation for future energy system modeling in Korea, ultimately facilitating strategic decision-making toward carbon neutrality. The PyPSA-KR not only supports policy development, infrastructure planning, and investment decisions but also contributes to ensuring long-term sustainability and energy security within the Korean energy system.