DOE pushes for PH use of nuclear energy

Published March 3, 2020, 3:03 PM By Genalyn Kabiling

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/03/03/doe-pushes-for-ph-use-of-nuclear-energy/

In light of the increasing public demand for electricity, the Department of Energy (DOE) has pushed for the possible development and use of nuclear energy in the country.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi has proposed the crafting of an executive order on the inclusion of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix during the Cabinet meeting on Monday, according to presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo.

Panelo initially told reporters in the Palace that the President agreed with Cusi’s proposed issuance of the executive order.

The Palace official later backtracked and clarified that the proposed EO has been submitted to the President last February 20 but “it has not been approved yet.”

In an earlier Palace press briefing, Panelo said Cusi has proposed the potential use of nuclear energy, citing the need to help ensure 24/7 power in the country.

“Cusi tackled the preparations of the government anent the power sector for short-term and long-term outlook, as well as the corrective policy issuances being undertaken by the Energy Department,” he said.

“Sec. Cusi likewise sought the approval of the issuance of a proposed executive order for the inclusion of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix as the Philippines is expected to have a rapid growth in electricity demand, in which a 24/7 power is essential and necessary,” he added.

Panelo said the revival of the moth-balled Bataan nuclear power plant was not discussed in the Cabinet assembly.

Cusi earlier disclosed the energy department has been working closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency to study the feasibility of the safe use of nuclear energy in the country.

In 2018, President Duterte declared that he wanted to ensure that adequate security measures are in place before considering a nuclear energy program in the country.

He said any proposal to use nuclear energy must be thoroughly studied by Congress and the people. Tight safeguards must also be set in place to prevent nuclear meltdowns that harm public safety and health, he added.