Singapore Evaluates Neighbors’ Nuclear Energy Plans with IAEA

Singapore’s Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology, Tan See Leng, stated on November 6, 2023, that the country is unable to confirm the progress of its neighbors in developing nuclear energy. During a parliamentary session, he emphasized that Singapore is collaborating with international organizations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to gather and verify available data.

Responding to a question from Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh, Tan acknowledged the difficulty in assessing the maturity of nuclear energy initiatives in the region. Singh, a member of the Workers’ Party representing Aljunied, inquired about the extent of advancements in nuclear technologies among neighboring nations.

Dr. Tan explained that much of the relevant information is not publicly accessible, making it challenging to provide definitive insights. He noted, “We have heard anecdotal announcements that there could be potential need for sitings 500 km south of us,” referring to possible locations for nuclear facilities. He also mentioned that more remote areas, such as Kalimantan in Indonesia, might be considered for small modular reactors.

The minister pointed out that while some neighboring countries have expressed intentions to develop nuclear technologies within the next 10 to 20 years, they have not specified whether they plan to pursue conventional or advanced nuclear technologies. He stated, “If it is the advanced nuclear technology … like the small nuclear reactors, the Gen IV, then I think pretty much the assessment level, the readiness level, we are probably on par.”

Recent media reports indicate significant nuclear developments across Southeast Asia. For instance, Malaysia aims to incorporate nuclear power into its energy generation mix by 2031, while Indonesia plans to commission its first nuclear power plant by 2034. The Philippines has outlined a strategy to start generating nuclear power by 2032, coinciding with the completion of its Bataan nuclear power plant, which has remained inactive since its construction in the 1980s. Meanwhile, Vietnam is targeting the operational status of its first nuclear power plants between 2030 and 2035.

Dr. Tan highlighted that many countries in the region have established research reactors, which are not intended for electricity generation but for research purposes. He mentioned existing reactors in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and possibly the Philippines. Malaysia operates the Triga Puspati Reactor in Selangor, while Indonesia has three research reactor sites located in Serpong, Bandung, and Yogyakarta. Vietnam’s Da Lat reactor, which dates back to the 1960s, is complemented by plans for an additional research reactor.

As for Singapore, the nation has yet to decide on pursuing nuclear energy but is studying its potential as a low-carbon energy source. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) is currently assessing the feasibility of advanced nuclear energy technologies for possible implementation in Singapore. The National Environment Agency is responsible for evaluating nuclear safety and safeguards related to potential nuclear deployment within the country and the region.

In a recent announcement, the EMA appointed British firm Mott MacDonald to conduct a study on advanced nuclear technologies, including water-cooled small modular reactors and Generation IV designs, which utilize innovative cooling systems or fuels. This step underscores Singapore’s cautious yet proactive approach to exploring the future of nuclear energy in the context of regional developments.