Embracing nuclear technology

In a groundbreaking move, the Philippines and the United States forged a landmark nuclear cooperation pact last week, a firm step towards the country’s goal of attaining energy independence and security.

This significant development captured headlines and heralded a strong signal to the global community that the Philippines is concretizing its commitment to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

President Marcos, together with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, led the establishment of the agreement wherein US investments and technologies will be shared,  helping facilitate the country’s transition to cleaner energy and the fortification of its power supply.

The President expressed his enthusiasm for pursuing nuclear energy as an integral component of the country’s energy mix by 2032.

“The signing of the Philippines-United States Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, or the 123 Agreement, is the first major step in this regard, taking our cooperation on capacity building further and actually opening the doors for US companies to invest and participate in nuclear power projects in the country,” Marcos said on the sidelines of the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco, California.

Beyond the realm of clean energy, the exploration of nuclear technology holds promise for diverse applications across sectors, such as health, medicine, food safety, livestock production and water use efficiency, as stated by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla.

As this transformative agreement was already anticipated by many in government and business, Meralco, a stalwart in the energy sector, took proactive steps to prepare for the potential integration of nuclear technology in the Philippines. In September of this year, Meralco inaugurated the Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program, a purposeful initiative designed to foster the development of aspiring Filipino nuclear engineers in anticipation of the imminent integration of this technology into the energy mix.

But what solidified Meralco’s industry leadership was the formalization of its partnership with US-based Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) for a pre-feasibility study on the prospective use of nuclear energy in the Philippines. This collaboration delves into the potential deployment of micro-modular reactor energy systems (MMR), marking a pivotal moment for the Philippines. No less than President Marcos himself also witnessed the signing of the deal, noting that it was a “significant step towards exploring clean and sustainable energy options for the Philippines.”

Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP), chairman and CEO of Meralco, emphasized the strategic significance of the partnership with USNC, asserting that it advances the distribution utility’s commitment to exploring and leveraging diverse energy sources for the benefit of Filipinos.

“Nuclear technology should be able to help us meet our country’s growing demand for energy, achieve energy independence and transition towards a sustainable energy future,” MVP said.

As Meralco pioneers these initiatives, it exemplifies unparalleled energy expertise, forged through decades of experience and innovation.

Meralco’s forward-thinking approach is evident in the FISSION program, which showcases the company’s holistic strategy in shaping a sustainable energy future. Recognizing the imperative to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of operating and developing nuclear technology, the company swiftly implemented the program.

The decision to undertake a pre-feasibility study with USNC, meanwhile, underscores Meralco’s dedication to safety and its role as a key contributor to the nation’s development. This study will serve as a comprehensive foundation, evaluating financial, technical, and safety aspects, guiding Meralco in its potential activities related to nuclear technology.

Undoubtedly, these developments herald an exciting era for the Philippine energy industry. A sustainable energy future requires more than a clean and reliable power supply; it must be holistic, fostering continuous development that benefits all.