DOE revisits framework on nuclear investments

by Myrna Velasco August 27, 2016
http://www.mb.com.ph/doe-revisits-framework-on-nuclear-investments/

Playing host to this year’s Nuclear Energy Conference, the Department of Energy (DOE) can tug its way into revisiting the adjusted framework on nuclear power investments that had been snagged following the Fukushima Dai-ichi tragedy in Japan.

The conference will run from August 30 to September 1 this year, and it will be led by the Vienna-headquartered International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in tandem with the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC) Conference.

The energy department noted that discussions will revolve around concerns on fostering international cooperation on nuclear programs.

The other topics would examine global status and prospects; legal frameworks; atomic waste management; funding and financing; human resource development and capacity building.

There would also be renewed push on social communications for public understanding as well as environmental considerations.

After the 2011 disaster in Japan, many countries have backpedaled on their nuclear power investments – primarily Germany which called for the full decommissioning of its nuclear fleets.

That fateful incident had also impeded ‘nuclear renaissance’ aspiration of many countries, including power markets in Asia. But it was just a temporary blow as many power markets are now re-embracing the technology option with just added security and safety features heeding the Fukushima lesson.

For the Philippines as a conference host, the energy department will be joined by the Department of Foreign Affairs, National Power Corporation, Department of Science and Technology and the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute.

The DOE added that member-countries in the Asia Pacific region will gather to discuss “common issues and challenges related to the introduction of a nuclear power program.”

Anticipated also to attend are those from the 18 IAEA member-states, including Bangladesh, Canada, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United States of America and Vietnam.