Nuclear power is back on Southeast Asia's energy agenda
Rising electricity demand, shocks in energy security and climate commitments are reviving long-stalled plans for nuclear power across Southeast Asia. But proponents of nuclear energy still face formidable obstacles.
Southeast Asian nations are once again considering nuclear power to meet growing electricity demands and address climate concerns. No country currently operates a commercial plant, but several are reviving stalled plans. Vietnam seeks to build Ninh Thuan 2 by 2035 and pursue SMR projects, while Indonesia aims for 500MW of nuclear capacity by 2032 and the Philippines aims for 1,200MW by the same year. Thailand plans its first SMR in 2037, and Malaysia and Singapore remain at the study stage.
Interest in nuclear energy has increased due to Southeast Asia's electricity demand growing by an average of 5.3% per year between 2026 and 2030. Nuclear energy is seen as a viable solution to both climate and energy security concerns. However, several challenges remain, including high costs, the need for robust regulatory frameworks, and potential vulnerabilities due to the region's geographical risks.
Public support varies, with more favorable attitudes in some countries like the Philippines. Ultimately, political will and public perception will be crucial factors in determining the future of nuclear energy in Southeast Asia.
Written by urgent.news from Deutsche Welle Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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