Government Steps Up Energy Saving Measures Amidst Oil Supply Uncertainty

South Korea Enforces Five-Day Vehicle Restrictions Amid Oil Supply Concerns​

Government Tightens Energy Measures as Middle East Tensions Persist​

Seoul, March 24: South Korea will strictly enforce a mandatory five-day vehicle restriction system across the public sector as it prepares for potential disruptions in oil supply linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment said on Tuesday.

Monitoring and Penalties to Ensure Compliance​

Beginning Wednesday, authorities will intensify monitoring of compliance with the five-day driving restriction system. Under this rule, vehicles are divided into five groups based on license plate numbers, with each group barred from operating on a designated weekday.

Although the system has already been in place, enforcement has remained lenient so far. The ministry now plans to issue detailed implementation guidelines and introduce penalties for public institutions that fail to comply. Electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles will remain exempt from the restrictions.

Private Sector Advisory and Possible Expansion​

The government has also urged private sector participation on a voluntary basis, citing growing uncertainty around crude oil supplies. It indicated that the restriction system could be extended to the private sector if a Level 3 national resource crisis alert is triggered.

The move follows the government’s decision last week to raise the oil supply alert to Level 2 under its four-tier national resource security crisis framework.

Additional Energy-Saving Measures Announced​

Alongside vehicle restrictions, the government is rolling out broader energy conservation measures. The top 50 oil-consuming companies will be asked to submit energy-saving plans, with incentives offered for meeting reduction targets.

Public institutions and major corporations are also being encouraged to adjust working hours temporarily to distribute traffic demand more evenly and improve energy efficiency.

Power Generation Adjustments to Cut LNG Usage​

To further manage energy consumption, the government plans to ease restrictions on coal-fired power generation on days when fine dust levels are low. It will also accelerate the restart of five nuclear reactors currently under maintenance.

These steps are aimed at reducing reliance on liquefied natural gas, which has also been impacted by the ongoing Middle East crisis.