IAEA experts to assess Singapore’s nuclear infrastructure readiness starting 2027: PM Wong

The spokesperson added that the government is closely monitoring the advancements in the nuclear energy space “so that we are ready to make an informed decision on the safe deployment of nuclear energy when the technology is ready”.

“Nonetheless, the field of nuclear energy requires a whole suite of capabilities to assess, operate and regulate this technology, and building these capabilities takes time. We are taking a phased approach towards building capabilities in the IAEA’s 19 infrastructure areas,” the spokesperson said.

“This ensures that we consider the deployment of nuclear energy comprehensively, and any decision is backed by a mature ecosystem of experts and regulators.”

Speaking to CNA on the IAEA’s approach, Mr Ian Grant, the former deputy director general of operations in the United Arab Emirates’ Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, said there was no fixed timeline for the completion of phase 1.

“The programme proper begins if or when the government takes a decision to proceed at the conclusion of phase 1 studies,” Mr Grant, who is now an independent expert on nuclear energy, said.

“The IAEA indicates, based on its experience, that moving from phase 1 to construction and operation of a nuclear power plant takes at least 15 years.”

Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia are among the countries known to have undergone only the first phase of the INIR mission, without progressing further in the process.

Poland and Vietnam are among the countries that have progressed to the second phase, while the United Arab Emirates and Belarus have moved on to phase three.

Mr Grant said some countries proceed based on their national circumstances, while others have paused or halted their plans altogether.

“Considerations include the government’s policy goals, the security of energy supplies, the availability of financing and public acceptance, to name a few,” he added.