ASEAN countries are comprehensively assessing nuclear energy development and deployment options

On October 21, 2026, at the World Nuclear Supply Chain Conference held in Manila, participating delegates pointed out that with the substantial growth in electricity demand and deepening energy security considerations, Southeast Asian countries are assessing nuclear energy options with a pragmatic attitude to diversify their power generation mix and safeguard regional energy supply.

It is understood that data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that since 2015, Southeast Asia's electricity demand has grown at an average annual rate of about 6%, and this trend is expected to continue until 2035. Rajib Dawood, Executive Director of the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), stated that geopolitical situations and energy security have prompted the region to seriously reconsider nuclear energy, with an estimated need for 32.7 GW of nuclear power installed capacity by 2060.

Currently, Indonesia plans to build floating nuclear power plants, Vietnam has announced a 2.4 GW nuclear power installation plan, and the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and other countries are also actively advancing related targets or exploring research. Among them, the Malaysian government launched a national assessment in August 2025, coordinated by MyPOWER Corporation, and TNB Genco, a subsidiary of the state-owned utility TNB, is actively preparing to become the owner and operator of future nuclear power plants.

Despite challenges in supply chain, skills, financing and public acceptance, regional cooperation is accelerating efforts for countries to draw on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Milestones framework. If the relevant targets are achieved smoothly, nuclear energy is expected to play a key role in meeting Southeast Asia's future energy needs and replacing traditional fossil fuels.