Original Korean article: Jejudominilbo
Lee Chang-heum, candidate for vice governor of Jeju Province for climate and economy, said that the Chuja offshore wind power project should be pursued on the basis of the Jeju Special Law.
Candidate Lee made this statement on the 26th at a personnel confirmation hearing of the Jeju Provincial Assembly, in response to a question from Provincial Assemblyman Han Kwon (Democratic Party, Ildo 1-dong, Ido 1-dong, Geoninip-dong): "What legal basis will you use when promoting the Chuja offshore wind power project?"
The Chuja offshore wind power project has been suspended since the bidding process for the project operator was cancelled in February. Power connection issues and profit-sharing arrangements were cited as the main reasons for the failed bidding.
The project's advantages and disadvantages differ depending on whether the Jeju Special Law or the Offshore Wind Power Act is applied. If based on the Jeju Special Law, Jeju Province would oversee the project and could mandate a profit-sharing fund. However, connection to the national power grid would require coordination with the central government. If based on the Offshore Wind Power Act, connection to the national power grid would be easier, but profit-sharing would be very limited.
Assemblyman Han questioned the candidate's position, saying: "We cannot say definitively that it will be the Jeju Special Law. Jeju's situation involves both the 'profit-sharing fund' and 'national grid connection.' From the perspective of Jeju residents, it would be good to do both. But that is an extremely difficult task. We cannot proceed with only rosy prospects."
Candidate Lee responded: "Jeju Province is coordinating with the climate ministry with the goal of connecting to the national power grid. If the Offshore Wind Power Act is applied, many procedures remain. Although the Chuja offshore wind power project failed in bidding, if we think through ways to ensure public interest, business viability, and resident benefits, we can break through this difficult situation. Jeju Province will develop a good strategy, coordinate with the climate ministry, and work to ensure benefits for Jeju residents."
