S. Korea sets up hydrogen power organization

[THE INVESTOR] A government-private sector body for facilitating the spread of hydrogen energy was launched Aug. 24.

State organizations taking part in the newly formed body include the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and Ministry of Environment, and the governments of Ulsan, Gwangju and South Chungcheong Province. From the private sector, makers of hydrogen cars and parts and companies involved in hydrogen production and distribution have joined the organization.

Those involved in the organization plan to establish task forces, and special-purpose companies for building and operating hydrogen recharging facilities.

The move is part of the government’s plans to increase the number of hydrogen-powered vehicles announced in July. At the time, the Energy Ministry said it will roll out measures to increase the number of hydrogen-powered vehicles to 10,000 units and to build 100 recharging station by 2020.

At present, there are 78 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in operation, and 10 recharging stations in operation for research and testing purposes.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)