The Department of Energy (DOE) on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to a “transparent, science-based, and inclusive energy transition pathway” as it clarified the intent of its draft Department Circular (DC) on integrating nuclear energy into the country’s power mix.

The release of the draft DC comes as the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act awaits the President’s signature. The bill establishes the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) and formalizes the country’s adherence to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s safety, security, and safeguards standards.

Addressing concerns from stakeholders, the DOE emphasized that nuclear energy is meant to “complement and not compete with variable RE sources.” Moreover, the department described nuclear as a “clean, low-carbon baseload power option” that can provide essential grid stability and support large-scale deployment of renewable energy such as solar and wind.

This policy direction, the DOE said, aligns with the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050, which calls for a “diversified, secure, and sustainable energy mix that leverages both indigenous renewable resources and emerging technologies, including nuclear energy.”

Citing international developments, the DOE said the projected LCOE (levelized cost of electricity) from nuclear is competitive with coal and natural gas when accounting for its long operating period and potential life extension of nuclear facilities. These cost factors are included in the economic analysis of the draft DC.

Crucially, the DOE stressed that the circular does not impose any mandatory procurement of nuclear energy. “The ultimate decision to procure or contract a nuclear power project lies with distribution utilities,” it said, adding that such decisions must follow government procurement rules and planning guidelines.

“The draft DC simply lays the enabling framework for nuclear to be part of the long-term solution mix should a utility deem it technically and economically viable,” the DOE said.

The department encouraged public participation and noted that comments may be submitted via [email protected] or during the public consultation scheduled for July 15, 2025.

“The Department remains committed to ensuring full transparency, regulatory integrity, and adherence to international standards as it develops the policies and infrastructure necessary to responsibly introduce nuclear power into the country’s energy system,”the DOE stated.

Do you see nuclear energy as a viable complement to renewables in the Philippines’ future energy mix? Join the discussion and share your views on the DOE’s proposed framework.

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