South Korean President Moon Jae-in is shutting down coal-fired power plants that are over 30 years old in June to mitigate air pollution.
He made the announcement while visiting a primary school in Seoul on May 15. The decision is part of a new government air pollution policy. Coal-fired power plants are being criticized for contributing to deteriorating air quality in South Korea.
President Moon promised on the campaign trail to close down older coal power plants and boost clean energy development.
Coal supplies about 40 percent of South Korea’s total power generation because it is cheaper compared to other energy sources such as liquefied natural gas.
At present, South Korea runs a total of 59 coal-fired power plants.
