Philippines sets out nuclear regulatory pathway ahead of 2032 target for reactors

For investors and contractors, the nascent nuclear industry in Philippines is an opportunity that should not be ignored. If the Philippines is successful in introducing nuclear into its energy mix by 2032, neighbouring countries will be more likely to introduce their own sovereign nuclear capabilities.

The Philippines Department of Energy has published a multi-stage regulatory pathway for the construction of nuclear reactors from start to finish. Its framework consists of business registration; environmental clearances; nuclear siting; licensing by the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom); sector-specific approvals; construction oversight; and licensing for operation, testing, and commissioning.

This framework, alongside policies and investment incentives, will be presented to potential developers as part of a broader push to attract nuclear investment. The government also plans to begin accepting nuclear power plant licence applications in 2026, with PhilAtom overseeing the introduction of nuclear energy to the country’s energy mix.

The Philippines is working closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other nuclear-developing countries, such as the US, to strengthen its technical readiness and regulatory capacity. Under its 2032–50 energy plan, the Philippines is targeting 1.2 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear capacity by 2032, rising to 2.4GW in 2035 and 4.8GW by 2050.

In recent years, Southeast Asia has accelerated its shift toward nuclear energy as governments confront rising electricity demand, decarbonisation targets, and concerns over energy security.

While no Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member country currently operates a nuclear power plant, several countries are now advancing legislative frameworks, feasibility studies and new‑build plans, driven by geopolitical challenges, supply‑chain pressures and emerging technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs). 

The Philippines’ nuclear program is currently the most advanced in Southeast Asia. Beyond its new framework, its government has enacted the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, establishing an independent nuclear safety regulator and codifying rules on secure nuclear development. The government’s roadmap includes operating two nuclear power plants by 2032 as it seeks to meet its long-term its 4.8GW of nuclear capacity by 2050 target.

This push is driven by the country’s chronic power shortages and high electricity prices, along with its need for reliable baseload capacity to stabilise an increasingly renewables‑heavy grid. Policymakers argue that nuclear is essential for both energy security and emissions reduction. 

At a regional level, ASEAN has become more receptive to nuclear energy in recent years. At the 15th Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-Sector Network (NECSSN) meeting in 2025, member states agreed to integrate nuclear power into the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2026–2030. This strategic shift reflects projections that regional electricity demand is rapidly rising in a way that fossil fuel‑based energy production cannot sustainably meet.

Global nuclear powers, including the US, China and Russia, have deepened engagement with ASEAN countries through feasibility studies, training programmes and technology cooperation. China has strengthened institutional ties via the China–ASEAN Forum on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technology, signing multiple agreements with member states. SMRs are emerging as the preferred technology in the region due to their smaller footprint, scalability and safety improvements, however, not all ASEAN states are advancing at the same pace, with many prioritising public engagement and capability building over deployment.

Although the Philippines is the closest to achieving a domestic nuclear energy industry, contractors and investors should also pay close attention to recent developments in neighbouring countries.

Vietnam

Despite previously suspending its nuclear programme, Vietnam has flagged nuclear energy as a potential way to reduce rising industrial challenges which are straining its power grid, particularly data centres and electric vehicle manufacturing. The Vietnamese government has publicly labelled nuclear power an “inevitable global trend” and has signed a cooperation deal with Russia’s Rosatom to build a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology.

In 2025, Vietnam’s prime minister ordered state‑owned enterprises to accelerate construction of two long‑planned nuclear plants in Ninh Thuan, targeting completion by 2030, and Vietnam is also evaluating SMRs for potential post‑2030 deployment.

Indonesia

Indonesia aims to develop its first nuclear power plant by 2039 under its national electricity plan and has identified 29 potential sites across the country. Several international technology providers have expressed interest in advanced reactor concepts, including molten‑salt designs and floating modular units that could support industrial energy demand such as hydrogen or ammonia production.

In 2025, Indonesia’s nuclear programme reached an important milestone when regulators approved site‑evaluation plans for the country’s first proposed nuclear licensing project. This approval allows preparatory work to progress toward a potential start of construction in 2027 and operation in the early 2030s, marking a significant step in establishing a domestic regulatory pathway for civilian nuclear energy.

Thailand

Thailand is considering the adoption of SMRs as part of its long‑term energy strategy, with major corporations supporting deployment to reduce fossil‑fuel exposure. Under its power development plan 2024–2037, Thailand plans to construct two 300MW SMRs near the end of the planning period. Internationally, Thailand has signed more than 120 agreements with the US for peaceful nuclear cooperation.

Singapore

Singapore’s Energy Market Authority is studying the feasibility of SMRs, noting significant improvements in safety and economics compared with older reactor designs. The government has also issued a public background paper to support national discussions and has expanded cooperation with US institutions.

While the deployment of nuclear energy has not been committed and there remains caution around the technology in Singapore, these steps indicate a shift from passive monitoring to active investigation.

Malaysia

Malaysia plans to launch a national nuclear energy programme within five years under the 13th Malaysia Plan, appointing MyPower Corporation as its nuclear energy programme implementing organisation. The initiative is tied to goals of strengthening energy security and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Malaysia has also signed cooperation agreements with the US and is exploring SMR options with Russia, reflecting a balanced approach to international partnerships.

Co-written by Marie Leo of Pinsent Masons.