Indonesia Eyes Nuclear Power as Part of Clean Energy Push, Canada Offers Expertise
A New Partnership for Clean Energy
During a recent business roundtable in Jakarta, Canada’s Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion, and International Trade, Mary Ng, presented an ambitious proposal: a collaborative effort on nuclear power plant development between Canada and Indonesia. This invitation came on the heels of a historic agreement, the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA-CEPA), which set the stage for deeper cooperation between the two nations.
“Clean energy is Canada’s specialty, and nuclear technology presents a real opportunity for collaboration,” Ng stated. She emphasized how ICA-CEPA aligns perfectly with Indonesia’s goal of achieving energy resilience and expanding its clean energy portfolio.
The timing of Ng’s proposal couldn’t be better. It aligns with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s focus on clean and renewable energy, a topic that was also central to discussions between President Subianto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the recent APEC Summit.
Indonesia Aims for Nuclear Power by 2032
While there haven’t been any formal discussions on nuclear energy development between the two countries, Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, Indonesian Deputy Minister of Trade, acknowledged that ICA-CEPA provides a framework for collaboration in the clean and renewable energy sector. She reinforced President Subianto’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2060 and highlighted a newly signed memorandum of understanding on critical minerals—an essential component for clean energy adoption.
Indonesia has ambitious plans to incorporate nuclear energy into its power grid as part of its broader renewable energy strategy. Darmawan Prasodjo, President Director of State power utility PT PLN, outlined plans to increase the nation’s electricity capacity by 102 gigawatts by 2040. Of this, 5 gigawatts would be generated by nuclear power plants.
To pave the way for this ambitious goal, the National Energy Council, led by Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, is aiming to finalize regulations for nuclear energy by 2025.
Indonesia’s first nuclear power plant (PLTN) is expected to be operational by 2032, with an initial capacity of 250-500 megawatts. This project would complement existing renewable energy targets that prioritize solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, and bioenergy sources.
A Bright Future Powered by Innovation
The potential collaboration between Canada and Indonesia in the realm of nuclear power signals a promising future for both nations. Canada’s expertise in nuclear technology, combined with Indonesia’s commitment to clean energy, could lead to a groundbreaking partnership that accelerates the transition to a more sustainable future.
As these discussions progress, both Canada and Indonesia are poised to strengthen their bonds in energy innovation, working together to create a cleaner, more energy-secure world.
What are the key drivers behind Indonesia’s push for incorporating nuclear power into its energy mix?
## Interview: Indonesia’s Nuclear Ambitions
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing Indonesia’s ambitious plans to incorporate nuclear power into its energy mix. Joining us is Dr. [Guest Name], an energy expert with extensive experience in Southeast Asia. Dr. [Guest Name], thanks for being here.
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Indonesia has set its sights on bringing online its first nuclear power plant by 2032. This is a significant undertaking. What are some of the key factors driving this push for nuclear energy?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** Indonesia has a rapidly growing economy and population, which are placing tremendous strain on its energy infrastructure. The country is seeking diversified and reliable sources of energy to meet this growing demand while fulfilling its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Nuclear power is seen as a viable option that can provide large-scale, baseload power generation with minimal carbon footprint.
**Host:** We understand Canada has expressed interest in collaborating with Indonesia on nuclear development. What makes this partnership seem likely, and what benefits could it bring to both countries?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** Canada is a global leader in nuclear technology and has a track record of safe and responsible nuclear energy production. The recent Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA-CEPA) lays the groundwork for increased cooperation in various sectors, including energy.
This partnership could be mutually beneficial. Indonesia gains access to Canadian expertise in reactor design, construction, and operation, while Canada could leverage Indonesia’s growing energy market and explore new opportunities for its nuclear industry. [1]
**Host:** However, nuclear power isn’t without its challenges. There are concerns about safety, waste disposal, and potentially high costs. How do you see Indonesia addressing these challenges?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** These are legitimate concerns that Indonesia needs to address transparently and responsibly. The country has signed and ratified the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, demonstrating its commitment to peaceful uses of nuclear technology.
Implementing robust safety regulations, establishing secure waste management systems, and ensuring public engagement will be crucial for building public trust and successfully integrating nuclear power into Indonesia’s energy mix.
**Host:** Dr. [Guest Name], thank you for sharing your insights on this crucial topic. It seems Indonesia’s pursuit of nuclear power is gaining momentum, and the potential collaboration with Canada could mark a significant step forward in its clean energy transition.
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** My pleasure.