Three Additional Floating Offshore Wind Projects in South Korea Gain Grid Connection Approval

Three floating offshore wind projects off Ulsan, South Korea, have signed a Transmission Service Agreement with KEPCO.
Three More Floating Offshore Wind Projects in South Korea Secure Grid Connection

Three floating offshore wind projects located off Ulsan’s coast, South Korea, have established a Transmission Service Agreement (TSA) with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).

The projects, Gray Whale (developed by BadaEnergy), Haewoori (developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners), and Bandibuli (developed by Equinor), are key contributors to this agreement.

Recently, the 1,125 MW MunmuBaram and 1,125 MW Korea Floating Wind (KF Wind) projects also reached an agreement with KEPCO.

This collaboration with KEPCO facilitates the integration of 6 GW of renewable energy into the national grid.

The BadaEnergy portfolio, a joint venture by TotalEnergies, Corio Generation, and SK Ecoplant, includes floating and bottom-fixed projects in Ulsan and South Jeolla province, featuring the Grey Whale projects.

Gray Whale, with a 1.5 GW capacity, will be constructed 60-70 kilometers from Ulsan Port and completed its environmental impact assessment in July 2024.

The 1.5 GW Haewoori project, owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and developed by Copenhagen Offshore Partners (COP), is planned to be erected approximately 80 kilometers off Ulsan’s coast, aiming for financial closure next year and operations by 2028.

Equinor’s memorandum with Ulsan City from May 2019 plans the up to 800 MW Firefly/Bandibuli wind farm 70 kilometers offshore, divided into two 75 square-kilometer sites.

EIA approval for Bandibuli was granted in July, enabling participation in wind power fixed-price contract auctions.

In April, five developers formed the Ulsan Floating Offshore Wind Association, joining the Ulsan Chamber of Commerce to foster cooperation.

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.