Philippines: Utilities could opt for nuclear power to meet needs, says DOE

Manila: The Philippines’ nuclear ambitions just got a jolt of energy, as new legislation and fresh policy frameworks begin to take shape.

After decades of hesitation, the country is now laying the legal and institutional groundwork to finally bring atomic energy into its power mix—marking a bold turn toward energy independence and long-term sustainability.

It forms part of the country's move to cautiously but confidently step into the nuclear era, balancing innovation with prudence, and legal rigour with public engagement — laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more secure energy future.

Nuclear option, not a mandate

The Department of Energy (DOE) has clarified that the recently-proposed draft circular on nuclear power is an option, not a mandate, for power distribution utilities (DUs) to meet the country’s growing energy demand. 

This was emphasised by DOE’s Energy Utilisation Management Bureau Director, Patrick Aquino, during a press briefing on July 9, 2025.

Aquino explained that the circular aims to provide DUs with alternative sources of capacity, including nuclear energy, but participation remains voluntary. 

The guiding principle remains the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), which mandates the selection of the “least cost” power sources. Thus, the circular simply offers a choice for industry players to contract with nuclear power projects if they find it appropriate and cost-effective for their needs.

PhilATOM

This development comes ahead of the expected enactment of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which will establish the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM). 

This agency will serve as the independent regulator ensuring the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, in full compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines.

Aquino assured the public that safety and security protocols will be strictly observed once the country embarks on nuclear energy.

Legal foundations and policy context

The Philippines’ nuclear ambitions are anchored in several key legal and policy frameworks. The Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 remains the backbone of the power sector, emphasising competition and cost-efficiency in power procurement. 

The draft circular aligns with EPIRA’s principles by allowing DUs to voluntarily explore nuclear options without imposing mandates.

More importantly, the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act (Senate Bill 2899), passed unanimously by the Senate in June 2025, provides the comprehensive legal framework for nuclear energy development. 

This law creates PhilATOM, tasked with regulating nuclear activities, licensing, safety protocols, and emergency response, thus filling a critical institutional gap that has long hindered the country’s nuclear progress, according to Nuclear Business Platform.

Complementing these is Executive Order 164 (2022), which articulated the national policy favoring nuclear energy as part of a diversified and sustainable energy mix.

The Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050 further targets an initial 1,200 MW nuclear capacity by 2032, expanding to 4,800 MW by 2050, reflecting the government’s commitment to nuclear as a key component of energy security and climate goals, as per Fulcrum.

Why nuclear?

Nuclear power offers several compelling benefits. It is a low-carbon, environment-friendly energy source with zero greenhouse gas emissions during operation.

It supports economic growth through a complex value chain, including construction, operation, and maintenance, which can generate jobs and technological advancement.

Aquino highlighted nuclear power’s competitive pricing compared to coal and natural gas, especially when factoring in the long operational life of nuclear plants and their ability to provide stable baseload power. 

This reliability is crucial for grid harmonisation, enabling better integration of variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind, according to the Philippine News Agency.

Challenges and public concerns

The Philippines’ nuclear journey has been fraught with challenges, notably the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), completed in 1984 but never operated due to safety concerns and political issues following the Chernobyl disaster. 

This history has contributed to public skepticism and distrust.

However, the current administration under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is taking a more systematic approach. 

The DOE is conducting public consultations, such as the hybrid forum scheduled for July 15, 2025, to engage stakeholders and address concerns openly.

Moreover, the government is pursuing updated feasibility studies, including those on the BNPP site, while prioritising compliance with international safety standards and robust regulatory oversight through PhilATOM.

The road ahead

While the draft circular offers an option rather than a mandate, it signals the Philippines’ serious intent to diversify its energy mix and enhance energy security through nuclear power. 

The enactment of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act will mark a turning point, providing the legal and institutional foundation necessary to responsibly develop nuclear energy.

The country’s nuclear programme is poised to complement renewable energy, stabilize the grid, and contribute to climate commitments. 

Yet, success will depend on sustained political will, transparent governance, public trust, and adherence to stringent international safety standards.