PHL Eyes Nuclear Power Plant Operation In 2032

The Philippines unveiled its Nuclear Energy Roadmap at the 68th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference (GC), held from September 16 to 20, 2024, in Vienna, Austria.

DOE Undersecretary Sharon Garin with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi I Photo: Sharon S. Garin Facebook

During the high-level General Debate of the IAEA GC, Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Sharon Garin described 2024 as a landmark year for the Philippines with the release of its nuclear roadmap, which outlines the country’s path forward using the IAEA’s Milestones Approach to develop a nuclear program.

"We aim to have commercially operational nuclear power plants by 2032, with at least 1,200 MW initially entering the country's power mix, gradually increasing to 4,800 MW by 2050," said Undersecretary Garin.

Undersecretary Garin emphasized that the Philippines is actively working to establish an independent nuclear regulatory authority, which will oversee the safe and secure development of the country’s nuclear energy program (NEP).

She further noted that the government is prioritizing 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.

At the heart of the country’s nuclear efforts is the Nuclear Energy Program – Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), led by the DOE, which adopts a whole-of-government approach to integrating nuclear power into the country’s energy mix.

The NEP-IAC has formed six sub-committees to address the 19 infrastructure issues outlined by the IAEA.

This November, the Philippines will host the International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum in Manila, bringing together government and private sector stakeholders to explore partnership opportunities in nuclear energy.

Undersecretary Garin invited the participants of the IAEA General Conference to attend this important event. USEC Garin also reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong support for the peaceful use of atomic energy, emphasizing nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation.

Additionally, she highlighted the country’s non-power nuclear projects in fields such as food and agriculture; health and medicine, especially cancer care; plastics recycling; education; and women’s empowerment.

“The beneficial uses of nuclear technology have been extensive across sectors, leading to an improved quality of life. These uses span the fields of health and medicine, agriculture, industry, and energy,” Undersecretary Garin added.

Executive Order No. 164, which adopts a national position for the NEP, articulates the Philippines’ decision to begin considering nuclear power in its energy mix and directs the NEP-IAC to perform functions to carry out the NEP in accordance with international standards set by the IAEA.