World Power Plants

Cheongpyeong pumped-storage power station400 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

Cheongpyeong pumped-storage power station, locally known as 청평양수발전소, is an essential hydroelectric power generation facility in South Korea, with a capacity of 400 MW. Commissioned in 1980, this facility employs advanced pumped-storage technology, allowing it to generate electricity during peak demand periods by utilizing water stored at elevated reservoirs. The power station is strategically located at coordinates 37.7425° N latitude and 127.4876° E, nestled in a region that benefits from abundant water resources, making it an ideal site for hydroelectric energy generation. Operated by 한국수력원자력, Cheongpyeong plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the national grid, particularly as South Korea transitions towards a cleaner energy future. The significance of pumped-storage hydroelectricity cannot be overstated, as it provides essential grid flexibility, enabling the integration of variable renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. With the South Korean government actively pursuing policies to enhance energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, facilities like Cheongpyeong are crucial in the country's energy strategy. The ability to store energy and release it as needed supports the overall reliability of the electrical supply, ensuring that consumer demands are met efficiently. Cheongpyeong's operational efficiency and environmental benefits position it as a vital asset in the ongoing evolution of South Korea's energy landscape, balancing economic growth with sustainability.

Capacity
400 MW
Commissioning Year
1980

46 years old

Owner
한국수력원자력
Location
37.7425°, 127.4876°

South Korea, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 114. largest of 265 plants in South Korea
  • #5,237 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #863 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.16% of the installed capacity of South Korea
Age & fleet comparison

46 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

KHNP (Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power) operates 18 plants totalling 50,833 MW

Regional density

75 plants within 100 km, 46,069 MW combined

Nearest plant: 청평댐 (6.2 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 37.742516, 127.487589
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Cheongpyeong pumped-storage power station is a hydro power plant producing approximately 1402 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
South Korea
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

South KoreaEnergy Profile

265
Total Plants
255.7 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasNuclearHydro
Top Fuels

See Incorrect or Missing Data?

Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.