Offshore wind is a key energy source for achieving global climate goals and national energy transitions. However, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) defines the height of offshore wind turbines as the distance measured from sea level to the tip of the blades, setting this limit at 500 feet, equivalent to 152.4 meters. The offshore wind height limit goes against the trend toward larger offshore wind turbines. 

 

Current Status and Issues of the 500-Foot Height Limit 

• 500 feet is a regulatory threshold that falls well short of the standards of internationally commercialized offshore wind turbines. 500 feet is merely the average height of global commercial offshore wind turbines in 2012. 

• The 500-foot height restriction will hamper the deployment of most offshore wind projects in Korea. If the 500-foot height limit for domestic offshore wind turbines remains in place, it will be impossible to meet the offshore wind deployment goal of 14.3 GW. 

 

 Source: Adapted from Offshore Wind Market Report 2023, DOE.

Figure 1. Global Average Height and Capacity of Commercial Offshore Wind Turbines

 

 

Lack of Rationality in Domestic Height Limit 

• The current methods and procedures of military operational review and uniform opinions are considered risks for the offshore wind industry. This is because the 500-foot height restriction is uniformly applied without considering the specifics of each project and its location, reviews are conducted at the discretion of individual competent units, and specific details regarding the 500-foot limit are restricted. 

• Improvements are needed not only in the content of the regulations but also in terms of legal compatibility. It is crucial to evaluate the coherence between reviews and relevant higher laws, and to assess the necessity of enacting or amending laws and regulations. 

 

The Potential of Offshore Wind Considering Military Operations 

• The most well-known concern is the potential interference of offshore wind turbines with military radar systems.  

• Countries at the forefront of offshore wind development are simultaneously promoting offshore wind deployment and securing national security through cooperation among relevant government bodies and strategies tailored to site conditions. 

 

Offshore Wind and Military Operations: The Way Forward 

• It is necessary to thoroughly examine from various perspectives whether the rationale behind the 500-foot height limit is reasonable. Based on examples from other countries, offshore wind and military operations can coexist if relevant ministries and government bodies collaborate. 

• Height restrictions should be applied rationally, reflecting the specific characteristics of each project or site rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all restriction. Additionally, complementary measures should be adopted and strengthened to mitigate the impact on military operations and activities, even for offshore wind turbines located in the same area. 

• The government’s responsibility and collaboration should lead to effective solutions, unlocking the potential for offshore wind deployment in Korea and fostering a policy environment where offshore wind can coexist with national security.