Nuclear power on the horizon

The Philippines is actively considering nuclear power as part of its long-term energy strategy, with various stakeholders engaging in discussions and studies to assess its feasibility. Notably, at the forefront of this endeavor stands none other than President Marcos.

During his inaugural State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Marcos emphasized the necessity of revisiting the nation’s strategic outlook and policies regarding the construction and maintenance of nuclear power facilities in the Philippines. He firmly believes that advancements in modern technology have effectively established safeguards against potential threats, provided that the stringent guidelines set forth by the International Atomic Energy Agency are meticulously adhered to.

During my attendance at the inaugural GIGA Summit organized by the Meralco Power Academy, I had the privilege of listening to the insights shared by local and international experts in the field of nuclear technology and beyond. Energy Secretary Raphael PM Lotilla underscored the critical importance of diversifying our energy sources for the sake of energy security, emphasizing the government’s willingness to explore nuclear power options, particularly the emerging small modular technologies. This statement set the stage for the extensive discussions that ensued.

At the same summit, Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman and CEO of the largest electric distribution utility in the country Meralco, unveiled an exciting development. He revealed that a prefeasibility study for the implementation of micro modular reactors (MMR) in the Philippines has already commenced. This study is being conducted in collaboration with USA-based company Ultra Safe Nuclear Corp., and is projected to span three months. Following the prefeasibility phase, a comprehensive feasibility study is slated to take an additional six months, with the anticipated release of results in mid-2024.

Pangilinan also underscored the substantial advantages associated with MMR technology. MMRs have a smaller capacity than small modular reactors (SMR), which are ideal for energizing island provinces, island cities, and hyperscale data centers. MMRs offer several benefits, including a stable 24/7 power supply for hyperscale data centers and the potential to support desalination plants, addressing water supply issues.

The GIGA Summit also served as the platform for the official launch of Meralco’s Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program. This groundbreaking initiative is designed with a singular objective: to nurture a key group of experts capable of driving forward the seamless integration of nuclear power into the Philippines’ energy landscape.

FISSION’s comprehensive approach encompasses sending engineers to esteemed international universities for advanced training in nuclear engineering, as well as facilitating immersive internships at partner SMR facilities located overseas, including USA, Canada, France, Japan and Korea.

The recently concluded three-day conference went far beyond the realm of nuclear energy. It brought together a diverse array of local and international energy industry experts who delved into new technologies, confronted challenges head-on, and explored opportunities for innovation. During the event, a wealth of fresh insights were exchanged, emerging trends in power and energy were dissected, and best practices were disseminated across various crucial domains.

The discussions at the summit encompassed a wide spectrum, ranging from sustainable energy solutions to strategies for optimizing energy consumption, and even the development and seamless integration of advanced metering infrastructure. These dialogues were prompted by the ever-growing demand for a more intelligent, resilient, and adaptable energy framework capable of addressing the pressing challenges of our time.

Events like the GIGA Summit serve as a testament to our preparedness to embrace emerging technologies, tackle obstacles head-on, and seize opportunities.

Returning to the central theme of nuclear technology, I reiterate that our journey to this path forward signifies our nation’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. This dedication to integration finds its foundation in the unwavering passion of leaders, experts, and visionaries who fully grasp the significance of diversifying our energy sources. In the present global context, sustainability isn’t just a choice; it has become an imperative that guides our journey to fulfilling our shared vision for a better world.