DoE: Nuclear site feasibility study discussed with AboitizPower, NPC

THE DEPARTMENT of Energy (DoE) said it has discussed a plan to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Aboitiz Power Corp. (AboitizPower) and state-run National Power Corp. (NPC) to conduct a feasibility study on potential nuclear energy sites in the country.

In a social media post on Wednesday, the DoE said the proposed study would assess possible sites for a nuclear power plant, including the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant and other candidate areas nationwide.

“The proposed cooperation aims to strengthen evidence-based and internationally aligned approaches to nuclear energy development by assessing site suitability, safety, security, regulatory readiness, and infrastructure requirements in accordance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards,” the DoE said.

The Philippine Energy Plan calls for the integration of nuclear energy into the national power mix, with at least 1,200 megawatts of capacity by 2032. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera