Indonesia is accelerating its nuclear energy development plan

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael·Mariano·Grossi stated that, with the support of the IAEA, Indonesia is accelerating its nuclear energy development plan, including small modular reactors (SMRs).

Grossi met with Arif·Satria, Head of Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), during the 70th IAEA General Conference in Vienna. The two sides reviewed existing cooperation projects and discussed the agency's technical support following Indonesia's recent earthquake, including the application of non-destructive testing technology and isotope hydrology technology.

During the meeting, Satria stated that, as part of its clean energy transition and commitment to achieving net zero emissions, the Indonesian government is currently intensifying the implementation of its national nuclear energy program and actively preparing for the construction of the country's first nuclear power plant.

In order to further consolidate the preparatory foundation of its national nuclear power infrastructure, Indonesia has formally applied to the IAEA, requesting the agency to conduct a follow-up Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission in 2027.

Indonesia expects strong assistance from the IAEA in enhancing national human resource capacity, particularly in the fields of advanced nuclear reactor technologies such as small modular reactors and large commercial reactors.

Grossi reaffirmed the IAEA's commitment to Indonesia, stating that review missions and technical assistance would be prioritized for Indonesia. This includes conducting technology-neutral assessments of commercial reactors to determine whether they are suitable for Indonesia's national conditions and development goals.

In addition, the IAEA is prepared to provide support throughout the entire process of Indonesia's nuclear energy development, and plans to deepen cooperation with Indonesia's Ministry of Health through the “Rays of Hope” initiative to enhance local radiotherapy and oncology diagnostic and treatment capabilities.

Officials from Indonesia's National Energy Council previously revealed that Indonesia's nuclear energy planning has made substantial progress, not only selecting potential sites but also planning to formally incorporate nuclear power into the National Electricity Company (PLN)'s electricity supply business plan for 2025 to 2034.

According to this plan, Indonesia's nuclear power development target capacity is 500 megawatts, of which 250 megawatts are planned to be operational by 2032, and another 250 megawatts are planned to be achieved by 2034. Currently, Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency has assessed 28 potential nuclear power plant sites, with current development efforts focused on West Kalimantan Province and Bangka-Belitung Province.