Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla on Tuesday expressed optimism that the Senate would pass the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act (PhilATOM) before Congress adjourns in February. The bill, which already mustered the House of Representatives, aims to create an independent nuclear regulatory body and update the country’s nuclear framework to align with international safety standards.
Lotilla acknowledged the potential long-term economic benefits of nuclear energy, citing its longer lifespan compared to other power plants, which could ultimately reduce power costs. However, he admitted that it is difficult to predict exact cost savings at this stage.
Despite the optimism, concerns about the feasibility of operational nuclear plants by 2032 persist. Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco, chairman of the House Committee on Nuclear Energy, warned that without a clear plan for plant procurement, the timeline for a functioning nuclear plant remains uncertain. He noted that reliable suppliers, such as South Korea, Japan, and Canada, could face supply chain challenges, complicating the process.
Supporters of nuclear energy, including the group Alpas Pinas, continue to advocate for the revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), which they argue could fast-track the country’s nuclear energy ambitions. They highlight the potential for stable, low-cost power that could drive economic growth, especially as renewable energy adoption increases system costs.
The PhilATOM bill, if passed, could be a crucial step toward modernizing the country’s energy infrastructure and promoting nuclear energy as a stable, long-term power source.
