a major blue hydrogen production facility is set to be built in Taean, South Chungcheong Province (Image created by AI/ChatGPT)
TEAAN, South Korea, April 23 (Korea Bizwire) — As South Korea embarks on the phase-out of coal-fired power generation, a major blue hydrogen production facility is set to be built in Taean, South Chungcheong Province, signaling a pivotal shift toward clean energy and carbon neutrality.
On April 23, 2025, South Chungcheong Province, Taean County, Korea Gas Technology Corporation, Mirae & Seohae Energy, Wonil TNI, and JPL Engineering signed a memorandum of understanding to construct a hydrogen production base with carbon capture capabilities in the coastal county of Taean, where decommissioning of six out of ten coal-fired units at the Taean Power Plant is underway and scheduled through 2032.
The facility will be built by 2028 on a 12,397-square-meter site in Inpyeong-ri, with a total investment of 17 billion won (approximately $12.4 million). It will use natural gas electrolysis to produce one ton of hydrogen per day, scaling up to two tons daily in later phases.
The initial annual output of 360 tons—enough to fully fuel 60,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles once—is expected to expand in alignment with the region’s broader hydrogen city development initiative.
A key feature of the plant is its integrated carbon capture system. Over 95% of the carbon dioxide generated during hydrogen production will be captured and converted into high-purity calcium carbonate for use in plastic manufacturing.
As South Korea embarks on the phase-out of coal-fired power generation, a major blue hydrogen production facility is set to be built in Taean. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Officials anticipate the project will accelerate South Korea’s hydrogen economy, especially in support of Taean’s transition from fossil fuel reliance.
It is also expected to bolster regional economic revitalization, promote job creation, and reduce urban air pollution by supporting hydrogen mobility infrastructure, including refueling stations and vehicle deployment.
“Building a clean hydrogen ecosystem is an essential step toward achieving carbon neutrality,” said Jeon Hyung-sik, Vice Governor for Political Affairs of South Chungcheong Province. “Taean, once home to coal power, is poised to become a hub of the hydrogen industry.”
Taean County Mayor Ka Se-ro added, “As the second carbon-capturing hydrogen facility in the province after Dangjin, this initiative will play a pivotal role not just locally but in advancing the national hydrogen economy. We will work with all stakeholders to ensure its success.”
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
