Author: PPD Team Date: 02/07/2025
The Philippines Department of Energy (DOE) has released its first policy framework to guide the commercial development and operation of nuclear power plants. According to Malaya Business Insight, the policy allows for small modular reactors (SMRs), micro-modular reactors (MMRs), and floating nuclear plants, reflecting global trends in scalable and low-carbon technologies.
The framework sets a target of integrating a 1,200 MW nuclear plant into the Philippine energy mix by 2032. The DOE will oversee implementation, working with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to ensure adequate transmission capacity and grid readiness. The Energy Regulatory Commission will be responsible for pricing, compliance certification, and coordination with distribution utilities.
SMRs are defined in the draft as reactors with up to 300 MW output, while MMRs are those with capacities of up to 10 MW. The policy emphasises these technologies as safer and more flexible than traditional large-scale reactors.
The DOE’s draft policy stated that the pioneer nuclear project will be granted baseload status and priority dispatch in the electricity market.
The draft also exempts the first nuclear plant from the Competitive Selection Process (CSP), allowing direct negotiations between distribution utilities and generation companies. Typically, CSP requires at least two qualified bids before awarding a power supply agreement.
The Philippines targets 35% of its power generation from renewable sources by 2030 and 50% by 2040. The new nuclear policy is aligned with this broader energy transition plan.