Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla has issued the Department of Energy (DOE) Department Order DO2024-01-0001, which institutes a nuclear energy program coordinating committee (NEP-CC) with the goal of achieving around 2,400 megawatts (MW) of nuclear capacity by 2032.
According to a report by Manila Standard, the country is already launching Phase 2, or the introductory steps to the construction of a nuclear power plant. Additionally, Phase 3 would be the implementation of the first nuclear power plant.
For this reason, the DOE is forming a coordinating arm to aid the Nuclear Energy Program-Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), which was assigned to manage a pre-feasibility study, gauging the need for incorporating nuclear energy into the power mix.
As per the mandate, the group would have officials from various bureaus and a DOE Undersecretary.
Phase 1, earlier concluded by NEP-IAC, discussed concerns leading up to the launch of the nuclear power program, which incorporated assessment of nuclear power infrastructures, submission of national position on nuclear, and energy planning studies.
This newly established committee would represent the energy department to NEP-IAC and other subcommittee members, as well as coordinate nuclear activities such as programs and studies on the development of the program.
Furthermore, its scope would include the evaluation of emergent issues that would influence the operation of the electrical grid due to the unique specifications of nuclear power plants, as well as the establishment of policies for safety within the organizations.
