The governments of Canada and France have expressed their interest in providing support and expertise to help boost the Philippines' nuclear energy ambitions.
The Department of Energy (DOE) announced that Canada is keen on sharing its extensive nuclear knowledge with the Philippines.
During the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum 2024, Canadian Ambassador David Hartman cited Canada's comprehensive nuclear ecosystem, including advanced reactor technologies and financing solutions through Export Development Canada.
"Canada's nuclear energy sector plays a crucial role in its clean energy strategy, with 19 reactors generating about 15 percent of the country's electricity," the DOE stated. "Canada has developed extensive expertise across every phase of the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining to reactor operation and eventual decommissioning."
Canada, one of the world's largest uranium reserve holders and the second-largest producer of nuclear fuel, is well-positioned to assist the Philippines in achieving its nuclear energy goals. The Philippine Energy Plan aims to install 1,200 megawatts of nuclear energy capacity within the next eight years, increasing to 2,400 MW by 2035 and potentially reaching 4,800 MW by 2050.
"This gradual scaling of nuclear capacity aligns with the Philippines’ long-term goals for energy security, economic development, and climate change mitigation," the DOE added.
France has also expressed its willingness to support the Philippines' nuclear energy program.
French Ambassador Marie Fontanel revealed ongoing discussions between the DOE and the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, Energy, Climate and Risk Education for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement would facilitate cooperation in energy transition and nuclear program implementation, with a focus on training, research, and capacity building. France is also considering a grant to support site studies for potential nuclear infrastructure locations.
The DOE emphasized the significance of France's experience with nuclear energy: "France's energy history offers a compelling example of the potential role and benefits of nuclear energy in a nation's development. Nuclear power has been crucial in protecting France from price volatility and recurring crises in international energy markets."
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez stressed the importance of a skilled workforce for the success of the nuclear energy program.
"Our primary task is to ensure that our country has the capacity to meet this demand by developing a local talent pool capable of supporting every aspect of the nuclear supply chain, from safety and operations to regulatory compliance and emergency preparedness," he said.
Benitez expressed optimism about collaborating with Canada and France on training and skills transfer: "With both countries’ experience and commitment to workforce development in the nuclear sector, we look forward to collaborating on training and skills transfer to empower our workforce and establish a strong, secure foundation for nuclear energy management in the Philippines."