India and ASEAN nations are exploring ways to collaborate on using small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) for energy generation.
These reactors are smaller and can be used in remote areas where regular nuclear plants might not work well. SMRs are seen as a way to help the region meet growing energy demands while keeping carbon emissions low, which is important for fighting climate change.
Harish Dudani, a senior member of India’s Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), discussed this at the Singapore International Energy Week.
He explained that ASEAN countries, including India, are expanding their views on SMRs as part of their plan to diversify energy sources and reduce their dependence on traditional energy methods like coal or large nuclear reactors.
This move toward SMRs could help regions with energy access challenges or diversify grid infrastructures.
In areas where renewable energy sources like wind and solar are common, SMRs could fill the gap when renewable energy is not available.
Dudani also said that there are challenges in adopting nuclear energy safely. For nuclear energy to be safe in ASEAN, strong regulations, international cooperation, and the use of global nuclear standards will be crucial.
He also mentioned that long-term planning, such as managing nuclear waste and ensuring security, will be needed to make sure SMRs can be safely used over time.
India is already expanding its energy trade with neighboring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh. By working together with other ASEAN countries, they hope to build better energy systems that are safe, efficient, and secure for the future.
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