Southeast Asia increases its shift to nuclear energy

(CLO) Southeast Asian countries are considering nuclear energy as a solution to boost economic growth and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, while achieving ambitious climate goals.

The Philippines is currently the only country in Southeast Asia with a nuclear power plant, located in Bataan province. The plant, which was built in the 1970s but never fully operational, is currently under review by the administration under President Bongbong Marcos.

The country hopes nuclear power will help reduce its dependence on coal and gas and cut greenhouse gas emissions. The Philippines aims to generate 1,200 MW of nuclear power by 2032 and 4,800 MW by 2050.

Illustration: Unsplash

Vietnam has also planned to restart construction of its first nuclear power plant in Ninh Thuan , which is targeted to be operational as early as 2030.

Indonesia is also planning to develop nuclear power, aiming to generate 75% of its electricity from “clean” energy sources, including nuclear, by 2038. The plan is still in its early stages and construction is expected to begin in 2032.

According to experts, renewable energy such as solar, wind and hydropower will be a more sustainable solution, especially given the climate and geography of the Philippines. However, some opinions are still concerned about the development of nuclear energy in Southeast Asia, especially when the region lacks experience in safely managing nuclear power plants.

Ngoc Anh (according to DW, Nuclear Business Platform)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/dong-nam-a-tang-cuong-chuyen-sang-su-dung-nang-luong-nhat-nhan-post341116.html