Canada Offers Support for Indonesia’s Nuclear Energy Ambitions

Jakarta, xweb.biz.id – Canada has expressed its willingness to assist Indonesia in incorporating nuclear power into its energy mix, marking another potential international collaboration for Jakarta’s nuclear aspirations. Canadian International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, currently visiting Indonesia, announced Canada’s openness to providing expertise in nuclear regulations and development.

During a press briefing in Jakarta, Hussen emphasized that Canada recognizes Indonesia’s interest in nuclear energy and is ready to support the country in establishing a robust regulatory framework.

“Canada is exploring how nuclear energy can be used by Indonesia. … You have to set up the regulatory conditions to build a nuclear ecosystem. … Prime Minister Trudeau had told ASEAN that Canada is ready to provide that expertise,” Hussen stated.

Indonesia’s Nuclear Energy Plans

Indonesia already operates three nuclear reactors, located in Yogyakarta, Serpong, and Bandung. However, these facilities are strictly limited to research purposes. The National Energy Council has identified 29 possible locations for nuclear power plants, with many situated in West Kalimantan.

The Indonesian government aims to begin commercial operations of its first nuclear power plant by 2032, with a capacity of 250 megawatts. The state-owned electricity company PLN Indonesia Power has been actively exploring nuclear options, with the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) providing a $2.3 million grant to support a feasibility study for a small modular reactor in West Kalimantan.

Canada’s Nuclear Expertise

Canada is a global leader in nuclear energy, generating 15 percent of its electricity from nuclear power. The country operates five nuclear plants across three provinces, housing 22 reactors. With decades of experience in nuclear technology and safety, Canada sees an opportunity to share its expertise with Indonesia as it embarks on its nuclear energy transition.

Hussen emphasized that Canada’s involvement would not be limited to technology but also extend to establishing regulatory frameworks essential for a safe and sustainable nuclear energy program.

“He [Trudeau] wasn’t just talking about the narrow nuclear expertise, although that is part of it. He was talking about the broader regulatory context and framework that you need to set up if you are going down the route of establishing a nuclear energy industry,” Hussen said.

Other International Players in Indonesia’s Nuclear Efforts

Canada is not the only nation showing interest in Indonesia’s nuclear energy ambitions. Several countries and organizations have stepped forward to support Jakarta’s efforts:

• United States: The USTDA has allocated funds for a feasibility study on small modular reactors in West Kalimantan, utilizing technology from the Oregon-based NuScale Power.
• Turkiye: Despite not yet having an operational nuclear reactor, Turkiye has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indonesia to explore potential collaboration in nuclear and hydropower energy. This agreement was formalized during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Indonesia.
• France: As a country that generates up to 70 percent of its electricity from nuclear power, France has also expressed interest in cooperating with Indonesia. French Ambassador Fabien Penone confirmed ongoing discussions regarding nuclear energy partnerships.
• Russia: Known for developing the world’s first floating nuclear power plant, Russia has indicated a willingness to collaborate with Indonesia on nuclear energy initiatives.
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): Indonesian officials have engaged in discussions with Emirati renewable energy giant Masdar to explore potential investments in Indonesia’s nuclear energy sector.

Regulatory and Infrastructure Challenges

While international interest in Indonesia’s nuclear energy development is growing, the country faces several regulatory and infrastructure challenges. Establishing a strong legal and regulatory framework is crucial before nuclear power plants can be built and operated safely.

Indonesia’s nuclear regulatory body, the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN), has been working on updating and strengthening nuclear policies to align with international safety standards. Additionally, the government is considering public acceptance and environmental concerns as part of its planning process.

Building a nuclear power industry requires significant investment, technological expertise, and long-term planning. Countries like Canada, with well-established nuclear programs, could play a critical role in guiding Indonesia through these complexities.

The Future of Nuclear Energy in Indonesia

Indonesia’s ambitious goal of launching its first commercial nuclear plant by 2032 reflects its commitment to diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The country’s growing electricity demand, coupled with the need for low-carbon energy solutions, has pushed nuclear power to the forefront of its energy strategy.

Canada’s offer to assist Indonesia comes at a pivotal moment, as Jakarta navigates the challenges of nuclear energy development. With multiple international players expressing interest, Indonesia has the opportunity to leverage global expertise to build a safe, efficient, and sustainable nuclear energy program.

As discussions progress, the success of Indonesia’s nuclear energy aspirations will depend on its ability to establish a robust regulatory framework, secure funding, and gain public support for this transformative energy shift.

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