INSIGHT 2026-09-03 · CLAIM 218ELECTRIC TIMES · KOREA POWER MARKET

2026.09.03 · Updated 2026.10.20

Korea approves 28 greenhouse gas reduction projects for ETS

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment (기후에너지환경부) approved 28 greenhouse gas reduction projects for the Emissions Trading System (ETS) as external projects.


Our take

How does ETS credit approval for DER projects reshape market value?

The approval of distributed energy resource (DER) projects for the Emissions Trading System (ETS) introduces a new financial incentive mechanism for DER deployment, potentially altering the value proposition beyond traditional electricity sales or grid services.

By allowing DER projects, such as residential solar installations and hydrogen bus replacements, to generate certified emission reductions, the government is creating a direct financial link between DER deployment and the ETS market. This diversifies the potential revenue streams for DER operators, moving beyond solely relying on wholesale electricity prices or ancillary service payments.

For investors — Investors in Korean DER can now explore opportunities to generate additional revenue streams through the sale of ETS credits, potentially improving project economics and attracting new capital.

Watch: Approval of new external projects for the Emissions Trading System.

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