Why Singapore is getting its ducks in a row in exploring nuclear energy

Singapore is set to embark on Phase 1 of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission in 2027, as announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at the Energy Market Authority’s 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner on May 19.

- Izzat See and Jan Grant

The IAEA INIR mission is a timely one. As a small city-state with unique constraints, it is imperative that Singapore studies every viable low-carbon option in navigating the energy trilemma of security, affordability, and sustainability. With advancements in nuclear technology having given rise to potentially safer and more reliable reactors, nuclear energy has once again emerged as worthy of serious consideration for the Republic’s long-term energy needs.

As part of these exploratory efforts, national capabilities need to be, and have been, built up steadily. The recent establishment of the Energy Market Authority’s Nuclear Energy Office and the National Environment Agency’s Nuclear Safety Division reflects such development within key government agencies, spanning both the potential promoter and regulator functions.

This capability-building is being undertaken outside of government as well. Here, at the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute (SNRSI), we have been developing the technical and scientific expertise needed to support the decision-making process since our set-up in 2014. Such expertise includes the know-how required to conduct reactor safety analysis, risk assessment, and radiological dispersion modelling, and is spread across the five main research teams — radiobiology; radiochemistry; reactor safety; radionuclide dispersion; and nuclear policy.

Outside of SNRSI, institutes such as the Energy Studies Institute and Centre for International Law have also been engaged in key policy research related to specific areas of nuclear energy.

All of the above is part of a structured approached aligned with IAEA guidance in laying the groundwork for the upcoming INIR mission.

WHAT IS INIR PHASE 1?