The Department of Energy (DOE) targets to have commercially operational nuclear power plants by 2032 with at least 1,200 megawatts (MW) initially entering the country’s power mix, gradually increasing to 4,800 MW by 2050.
DOE said in a statement yesterday the development is part of the roadmap presented by the Philippines at the 68th International Atomic Energy Agency General Conference in Vienna, Austria on September 16 to 20.
DOE Undersecretary Sharon Garin, who represented the country in the conference, said the Philippines is actively working on its efforts to establish an independent nuclear regulatory authority which will oversee the safe and secure development of the country’s nuclear energy program.
Garin added the government is giving high priority to the passage of key legislation focused on nuclear safety, ensuring that the legal and regulatory frameworks are in place to safeguard public health, environmental protection, and national security as the country moves toward harnessing nuclear power.
DOE added the Philippines will host the International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum in
Manila this November which will bring government and private sector stakeholders together to explore partnership opportunities in nuclear energy.
Garin also reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong support for the peaceful uses of atomic energy as well as the non-power applications of nuclear such as in food and agriculture; health and medicine, especially cancer care; plastics recycling; education and women empowerment.
“The beneficial uses of nuclear technology have been extensive across sectors, leading to improved quality of life. These uses span the fields of health and medical, agriculture, industrial and energy,” Garin said in the statement.
