Indonesia Prepares for Nuclear Power, Still in Initial Phase

JAKARTA, investortrust.id – Indonesia is progressing towards nuclear energy, with its preparations still in the initial phase, according to Eniya Listiani Dewi, Director General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation, or EBTKE, at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

“We are still in Phase 1 of nuclear power plant (PLTN) development, based on guidelines from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA),” Eniya stated during a hearing with Commission XII of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.

Under the National Electricity General Plan (RUKN), Indonesia aims to connect its first nuclear power plant to the grid in 2032, with an initial capacity of 250 megawatts (MW). Over the next 15 years, the capacity is expected to expand to 7 gigawatts (GW) by 2040 as part of the country’s transition from fossil fuel-based power generation.

“For the preparation and operation of nuclear power plants, we are currently awaiting the passing of the Draft Law on New and Renewable Energy (RUU EBET), as well as amendments to the Nuclear Energy Law,” she added.

NEPIO: A New Initiative for Nuclear Development

Eniya highlighted that the revised Nuclear Energy Law will primarily address non-power nuclear applications, while nuclear power plants will be regulated under RUU EBET.

“The draft of the National Energy Policy Regulation (RPP KEN) already includes policies for nuclear energy expansion, and we are in the process of establishing the Nuclear Energy Program Implementation Organization (NEPIO). This entity will oversee the development and operation of nuclear power plants, though it does not have a formal structure,” she explained.

NEPIO is not a mandatory requirement under IAEA regulations, but Indonesia plans to establish it following discussions between Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia and other senior officials.

“Through several meetings with the Deputy Minister and the Minister, the government has directed NEPIO to function similarly to the Downstream Task Force, with a mandate from the President to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources for nuclear power plant development,” Eniya concluded.