The Korean government has announced a comprehensive plan to convert livestock manure into renewable energy by 2030. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs aims to address environmental burdens such as livestock odors while expanding renewable energy demand through its ‘Livestock Manure Solid Fuel Activation Plan.’ This initiative targets the use of solid fuel derived from manure in large-scale power plants, with successful pilot combustion tests conducted in 2024 and 2025 paving the way for industrialization. The plan includes package support for both production and demand, marking a full-scale transition to renewable energy.
By 2030, the government intends to increase the annual conversion of livestock manure to solid fuel to 1.18 million tons, generating enough electricity for 38,000 households each year. Additionally, the project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 500,000 tons annually, equivalent to the emissions from 360,000 vehicles. Major facilities in Suncheon and Gimje currently produce around 10,000 tons of solid fuel per year, with usage set to expand to 660,000 tons by 2029 and 1 million tons by 2030. The Livestock Environment Resource Division of the Ministry oversees the project, with inquiries directed to 044-201-2362.
To improve solid fuel quality, measures such as rapid manure collection and bedding support have been introduced. Manure is collected within three months to ensure suitability for solid fuel production. Ash generated during combustion will be repurposed as fertilizer raw material, and phosphorus extraction processes are being developed for added value. Pilot tests for high-moisture manure fuel conversion are underway, aiming to relax moisture standards and facilitate broader energy conversion.
By 2030, 25 solid fuel production facilities will be established to stabilize supply. The government will increase installation support and national funding ratios to ease the burden on farmers, while standardizing production processes to enhance economic viability. The Ministry emphasizes the dual goals of practical application and economic efficiency, aiming to expand sustainable resource systems at the regional level. This initiative is expected to deliver significant environmental and economic benefits, including coal replacement, greenhouse gas reduction, and mitigation of livestock odors.