Background
Currently, charging facilities for electric vehicles and hydrogen vehicles, and solar power generation facilities may be installed at gas stations. The installation of fuel cells within a gas station is prohibited for safety reasons.
In May 2021, a Korean company took advantage of the relevant regulatory sandbox to install fuel cells in gas stations to produce electricity. The company created an ‘energy superstation’ by installing a 300 kW fuel cell in a gas station.
With current gas stations becoming increasingly unattractive due to a decrease in sales, low operating profits and the continuation of the conversion of energy, there is an expectation that gas stations will become ‘comprehensive gas stations’ that offer electric charging stations, hydrogen charging stations and electricity generators.
On May 4, 2023, the National Fire Agency issued an administrative notice proposing an amendment to the relevant standards to permit the installation of fuel cells within gas stations.
Public opinion on the proposed amendment is sought by May 24, 2023.
Key takeaways
The rising calls to permit fuel cells to be installed in gas stations underpins the National Fire Agency’s proposed amendment.
A few issues require further consideration.
- The proposed amendment does not include any safety standards. The introduction of such standards should be monitored closely.
- Gas station operators are not permitted to directly sell electricity generated from fuel cells to charge electric vehicles. A wider amendment to the regulations that permit direct sales should be monitored.
- Civil complaints continue to require close attention as they may hinder the relevant permits and licences from being issued.
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[Korean version] 주유취급소 내 연료전지 설치 근거 마련을 위한 기준 개정 예고
