Integrated Conference to Unite Global Nuclear Leadership

The World Nuclear Supply Chain Conference 2026 and the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum 2026 will operate as a unified event, creating a comprehensive platform for stakeholders to converge. The conference is expected to attract policymakers, regulators, utilities, reactor vendors, engineering and construction firms, manufacturers, suppliers, financiers, research organizations, and international institutions. This consolidated approach aims to strengthen the country’s positioning within the regional nuclear supply chain while opening pathways for nuclear energy investment opportunities.

Aligning with National Nuclear Energy Targets

The Department of Energy’s initiative directly supports the Philippine Energy Plan‘s ambitious nuclear capacity goals. Under the strategic roadmap, the nation aims to develop 1,200 megawatts of nuclear capacity by 2032, expand to 2,400 megawatts by 2035 and reach 4,800 megawatts by 2050. These targets represent a comprehensive pathway toward meeting the country’s growing energy demands through clean, reliable power generation.

Philippines’ Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin emphasized the importance of the partnership in advancing these national objectives.

“The Philippines is pleased to partner with the World Nuclear Association to convene this integrated event in Manila. As ASEAN countries explore sustainable pathways to meet growing energy demand, cooperation on policy, skills, investment, and supply chain capability will be essential,” Garin said.

Addressing Practical Requirements for Nuclear Expansion

The conference program is designed to address the multifaceted challenges involved in scaling from individual projects to full-scale nuclear programs. Participants will engage with topics including industrial readiness assessment, vendor development strategies, project delivery risk mitigation, financing mechanisms, localization initiatives, and ASEAN supply chain integration approaches.

Beyond formal presentations, the event will feature dedicated networking sessions and business-to-business meetings. These interactions provide international vendors with direct access to regional stakeholders, facilitating the identification of partnership opportunities and supply chain capabilities necessary for successful project execution.

Building Resilient Global Supply Networks

The World Nuclear Association’s Director General Sama Bilbao y León said, “The expansion of nuclear energy will be delivered through strong regional partnerships and resilient global supply chains.”

“By partnering with the Philippines Department of Energy, we are creating a single platform that brings international expertise together with ASEAN’s priorities for industrial development, clean energy, and energy security. This partnership will help turn ambition into practical collaboration across the full nuclear value chain,” he added.

The MoU was signed in Jakarta on 30th June 2026 between Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) and Indonesia’s Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (Bapeten). Through this framework, the two agencies will engage in technical exchanges, collaborative training programmes, research initiatives, and knowledge sharing in areas such as nuclear safety, nuclear security, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness.

The arrangement underscores the growing importance of regional partnerships as countries across Southeast Asia assess the potential contribution of nuclear technology to future energy demand.

Leaders Highlight Long-Term Partnership and Regional Preparedness

Benjamin Koh, Chief Executive of Singapore’s NEA, said the nuclear safety cooperation agreement builds on the strong relationship between Singapore and Indonesia. He noted that closer collaboration will help both countries strengthen regulatory oversight, improve emergency response capabilities, and exchange technical knowledge as Singapore continues to study advanced nuclear technologies.

Indonesia’s acting Bapeten chairman, Zainal Arifin, described the agreement as more than a technical arrangement. He said it represents a long-term partnership that will strengthen regulatory capabilities while helping both countries respond to new challenges in nuclear safety and radiation protection.

In addition, the nuclear safety cooperation MoU supports wider regional initiatives aimed at boosting preparedness for nuclear or radiological incidents while promoting the adoption of international safety standards throughout Southeast Asia.

Clean Energy Goals Drive Increased Interest in Nuclear Technology

The nuclear safety cooperation agreement comes as interest in clean energy alternatives continues to grow across the region, with several nations exploring nuclear energy as part of their long-term energy strategies. While Singapore has not made a decision to adopt nuclear power, it has continued to invest in research, develop regulatory expertise, and assess advanced reactor technologies.

The country is also preparing for an Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2027. The review will evaluate Singapore’s preparedness in key areas, including safety regulations, emergency planning, radioactive waste management, and institutional capacity before any decision is taken on nuclear energy development.

At the same time, Indonesia is moving ahead with efforts to develop nuclear energy while continuing to strengthen its regulatory system. The newly established agreement creates opportunities for both countries to share expertise, enhance technical capabilities, and ensure that future nuclear projects are supported by rigorous safety and security measures.

Under the terms of the lead-cooled AMR MoU, the two organizations will work together to optimize the electrical and grid integration design for Blykalla’s specific reactor types. This comprehensive scope includes transmission-level connections, on-site electrical architectures, and advanced digital monitoring systems. Furthermore, the agreement allows Hitachi Energy to incorporate its technical offerings into a standardized solution for small modular reactors.

Focusing on Grid Integration and Industrial Demand

The primary focus areas of this partnership involve creating conceptual designs for network integration and developing digital tools for both the construction and operational phases of nuclear facilities. By prioritizing grid integration, the companies intend to provide a combined offering for clients with high, constant power requirements. This is particularly relevant for energy-intensive industries and data centers.

As the electrification of transport, industry, and general society accelerates, there is an urgent need for stable baseload power sources that can complement intermittent renewable energy. Advanced modular reactors are positioned to fill this gap, providing a secure and carbon-free energy source. The collaboration between these two entities seeks to accelerate the commercialization of these lead-cooled AMR solutions, specifically targeting markets across Europe and the United States to build more resilient sustainable energy systems.

Innovation in Lead-Cooled Technology

Blykalla’s approach to next-gen nuclear technology utilizes lead-cooled technology, which is further enhanced by proprietary materials innovation. The company has developed patented aluminum alloyed steels capable of withstanding the corrosive properties of liquid lead. This breakthrough is a vital component in making lead-cooled fast reactors commercially viable. The technology is rooted in proven concepts and has been further refined through extensive research and innovation initiatives.

Executive Perspectives on the Collaboration

Tobias Hansson, Country Managing Director of Hitachi Energy Sweden, said, “By combining Blykalla’s innovative reactor technology with our expertise in electrification, we can help enable solutions that support industrial growth and the broader energy transition.”

Jacob Stedman, CEO of Blykalla, “Hitachi Energy’s expertise in electrification makes them a strong partner to help bring our technology to market, and positions us to meet the growing global demand for clean, reliable power.”

The memorandum establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration, encompassing the exchange of technical knowledge, regulatory alignment, and human resource development. Both nations have agreed to explore research and innovation opportunities, particularly focusing on the potential deployment of advanced nuclear technology. The document was signed by the Ambassador of Croatia to Canada, Vice Skračić, and the Ambassador of Canada to Croatia, Jessica Blitt, with Croatian Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar in attendance.

Regulatory Alignment and Knowledge Exchange

Canada is recognized globally as a leader in the field of civilian nuclear energy, maintaining decades of experience in the safe operation and development of nuclear facilities. Croatia, which co-owns the Krško nuclear power plant in Slovenia, is currently evaluating its future energy needs as part of a broader energy transition and decarbonization strategy. By partnering with international experts, Croatia aims to leverage top-tier experience to refine its own domestic energy policies.

The nuclear energy cooperation will prioritize the exchange of experiences regarding regulatory frameworks and safety standards. Key areas of focus include nuclear security, the management of nuclear fuel, and the safe handling of radioactive waste.

Advancements in Small Modular Reactors and Research

A primary component of the nuclear energy cooperation agreement involves the exploration of advanced nuclear technology, with a specific interest in small modular reactors (SMRs). These innovative reactor designs are seen as a potential solution for flexible and scalable power generation. Furthermore, the two countries will encourage joint efforts in research and development to foster innovation within the energy sector. Education and professional training also form a vital part of the memorandum, ensuring that the necessary workforce capacities are developed to support future energy infrastructure.

Ante Šušnjar noted that this partnership represents a strategic investment in the long-term resilience of the Republic of Croatia.

“Cooperation with Canada will further strengthen our institutions and professional capacities, and enable us to make decisions about future energy options based on facts, knowledge, and the best international experiences,” he stated.

Commitment to Energy Security and Future Planning

While the memorandum serves as a robust platform for expert exchange and institutional strengthening, the Croatia’s Ministry of Economy clarified that it does not constitute a binding obligation for specific investment decisions. Instead, it creates the necessary groundwork for future cooperation between the two countries in the field of civilian nuclear energy.

“If our goal is to double our grid and build a low-carbon economy in less than 25 years, there is no credible plan to do that without nuclear energy and the clean, reliable baseload power is provides,” said Canada’s Energy Minister Tim Hodgson, at the unveiling of the new nuclear energy strategy.

The Role of Nuclear Power in the Artificial Intelligence Sector

Beyond traditional residential and industrial needs, nuclear power is being identified as a critical component for the advancement of artificial intelligence. Experts and government officials view reactors as a stable source of zero-emission power capable of meeting the immense energy requirements of large-scale data centers.

Technical Framework and Domestic Implementation

The cornerstone of this new Canada energy policy is the Canada Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) reactor. The federal government holds the licensing and intellectual property rights for this technology. These reactors are distinct because they utilize natural uranium fuel, which eliminates the need for uranium enrichment. This characteristic helps in lowering operational costs and reduces risks associated with nuclear weaponization. Currently, 17 of these reactors provide approximately 13 per cent of the nation’s electricity, with several others operating internationally.

The roadmap for Canada’s nuclear energy strategy includes specific milestones for domestic growth. The government intends to have two new large-scale reactors under construction by 2035, with an additional five in the planning or development stages by 2040. Furthermore, the strategy mandates the commercial rollout of at least one reactor outside of Ontario and the development of a domestically produced microreactor by 2035. These microreactors are slated for deployment in remote communities during the latter half of the 2030s.

Global Trade and Nuclear Reactor Exports

On the international stage, the government is looking to aggressively expand its footprint. The plan aims to secure at least four new international markets for reactor sales by 2040. Additionally, the government intends to engage with six to ten other nations that are looking to establish nuclear energy programs. This push for nuclear reactor exports is framed as a strategic move to position the country as a preferred partner for technology and raw materials, especially as nations in Europe and Asia seek alternatives to traditional suppliers.

The strategy also includes a goal to double the export of enriched uranium supplies over the next decade. The government views these international partnerships as more than just transactions, noting that they establish durable geopolitical and commercial relationships that serve broader foreign policy interests. This approach is expected to benefit the uranium mining industry in Saskatchewan, which already accounts for a significant portion of global output.

Financial Projections and Economic Considerations

Implementing such a vast infrastructure project involves significant financial commitments. Officials from Natural Resources Canada indicated that the construction of the proposed reactors could exceed $100 billion. The government has stated that these projects will be funded through a combination of private financing, capital investments, and Indigenous equity participation. While no new public funding was announced during the strategy’s launch, a new federal financing policy is expected by April 2027. This policy will detail the requirements for accessing loan streams and investments from the national infrastructure bank.

The strategy also emphasizes the need for project proponents to develop long-term solutions for nuclear waste management and disposal. To support innovation, the plan seeks to increase private research and development funding for fission and fusion technologies to between $500 million and $700 million by 2032, which would represent a doubling of current investment levels.

The discussions underscored the robustness of the special strategic partnership between the two nations. Both representatives highlighted the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant as a premier example of international nuclear energy cooperation. The nuclear energy plant has been instrumental in providing a stable energy security strategy while supporting the transition toward sustainable development goals in the region.

Expanding Horizons in Advanced Nuclear Technologies

Building upon the operational success of the Barakah project, the two parties explored new avenues for growth in nuclear energy. This includes a shared interest in advanced nuclear technologies and the development of modular small nuclear reactors. By focusing on these innovations, both countries aim to solidify their standing in the global nuclear energy sector while ensuring a resilient energy security strategy for the future.

The meeting also addressed broader infrastructure needs, including cooperation in oil and gas, refining, petrochemicals, and liquefied natural gas. These efforts are designed to create flexible energy systems capable of adapting to rapid global shifts.

Commitment to Renewable Energy Projects and Sustainability

Sharif Al-Ulama detailed the UAE’s ambitious roadmap for the energy sector, specifically the goal to increase the production capacity of renewable energy projects to 22 gigawatts by 2031. This strategy incorporates battery energy storage systems and a balanced energy mix that integrates conventional and clean sources to maintain long-term sustainability.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence Energy Solutions

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the integration of artificial intelligence energy applications. The Ministry reviewed its current initiatives to enhance the sustainability of data centers through AI-supported smart cooling and energy efficiency standards. These digital tools are viewed as essential for planning future infrastructure and optimizing consumption.

Future Cooperation Under the Strategic Partnership Agreement

Furthermore, the UAE’s leadership in the Global Energy Efficiency Alliance (GEEA) was discussed. This state-led initiative seeks to facilitate knowledge exchange and policy development between governments and the private sector. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to maintain coordination under the strategic partnershipagreement so as to advance the prosperity of both countries.

The two new nuclear reactors planned for Yeongdeok County will each have a capacity of 1,400 MW and are expected to be completed in 2037 and 2038. These units are anticipated to employ South Korea’s domestically developed Generation III+ APR1400 pressurised water reactor (PWR) technology. The APR1400 was created by KHNP and Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco). KHNP operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kepco and is responsible for owning and operating South Korea’s commercial nuclear power facilities.

Alongside the large-scale reactor project, KHNP is moving ahead with plans for the i-SMR plant in Gijang County, which is targeted for completion in 2035. The i-SMR is South Korea’s proprietary next-generation SMR nuclear plant and was developed by a consortium of South Korean organisations led by KHNP and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute. Known as the Innovative Small Modular Reactor, the design is based on PWR technology and delivers an electrical output of 170 MW. Reports in South Korea stated that the Gijang SMR facility is expected to have a total capacity of about 700 MW, suggesting the deployment of four units with a combined capacity of 680 MW.

The designation of these locations for the two new nuclear reactors marks the first occasion since 2011 that South Korea has selected new sites for nuclear power plants. According to KHNP, the chosen locations were identified following assessments covering suitability, environmental impact, construction feasibility and public acceptance. The company intends to launch licensing procedures, including an environmental impact assessment in early 2027.

Rosatom’s commitment to Vietnam’s nuclear industry

Likhachev reaffirmed Rosatom’s readiness to assist Vietnam in advancing its nuclear industry through support for the establishment of a modern nuclear center, the promotion of the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and the training of highly qualified nuclear specialists. He also emphasized the corporation’s intention to maintain close cooperation with Vietnamese partners to ensure the effective implementation of previously agreed projects while exploring additional areas with strong potential for future collaboration. Likhachev stated that cooperation with Vietnam remains one of Rosatom’s top priorities.

Ninh Thuan Project Remains Central to Nuclear Cooperation

He further noted that Rosatom is working closely with Vietnamese counterparts to move forward with the Ninh Thuan 1 Nuclear Power Plant project. In addition to cooperation in the nuclear industry, he pointed to opportunities for expanded collaboration in renewable energy, high technology, logistics, and shipbuilding for the Arctic region.

Vietnam’s Commitment to Nuclear Energy Development

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Le Minh Hung expressed appreciation for the longstanding contributions of Rosatom and the Russian side to Vietnam’s nuclear energy sector over the past four decades, including support related to the operation of the Da Lat nuclear reactor. He said that the Vietnam–Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, supported by a high degree of political trust, provides a strong platform for elevating bilateral cooperation in atomic energy into a long-term strategic pillar.

The Prime Minister also noted that, as an active member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vietnam places significant importance on the peaceful application and development of nuclear energy. In that context, cooperation with Russia and the implementation of the Ninh Thuan I Nuclear Power Plant project continue to rank among Vietnam’s highest priorities. He called on Rosatom and the Russian side to continue supporting the extension of operations at the Da Lat reactor and the implementation of the Nuclear Science and Technology Center project in Dong Nai city.

The symposium was arranged to broaden opportunities for cooperation linked to the planned new Dutch nuclear power plant construction project. Approximately 150 participants attended the gathering, including Shin Dal-won, Managing Director of Hyundai E&C’s NewEnergy Division, Roman Romanowski, Vice President of Westinghouse, government officials from South Korea, the United States, and the Netherlands, along with representatives from local industries. During the event, Hyundai E&C presented its achievements and expertise in nuclear power plant construction, highlighting capabilities developed over more than fifty years. The company also outlined its procurement process and the requirements for partner participation while encouraging local businesses to become involved in future projects related to Dutch nuclear power.

The event also drew participation from officials of the Nuclear Energy Organisation of the Netherlands (NEO NL). The Dutch government formally launched NEO NL in February 2026 as part of efforts to enhance energy security and support its carbon neutrality target for 2050. The organization is currently advancing procedures connected to the development of two new nuclear power plants.

A dedicated ‘B2B Matching Session’ was conducted alongside the symposium, providing a platform for direct discussions between Hyundai E&C and local companies regarding potential cooperation. Through these meetings, Hyundai E&C assessed the technological strengths and execution capabilities of participating firms while identifying strategic partners that could contribute to future projects.

Hyundai E&C has continued to broaden its presence across Europe’s nuclear power sector. Following its involvement in the Kozloduy large-scale nuclear power plant in Bulgaria, the company has expanded collaboration with Westinghouse through initiatives that include a technical feasibility study for a new nuclear power plant project in Slovenia and an Early Work Agreement (EWA) with the Finnish state-owned energy company Fortum. The company has also increased its activities in next-generation nuclear technologies. In March 2026, Hyundai E&C signed a technology cooperation agreement concerning Molten Salt Reactors (MSR) with Thorizon, a spin-off company of the Nuclear Research and consultancy Group (NRG) in the Netherlands.

An official from Hyundai E&C said, “This symposium was an opportunity to closely interact with local companies and solidify the nuclear power plant supply chain in the Netherlands.”

“As we have laid the foundation for local suppliers to fully understand Hyundai E&C’s nuclear power business strategy and project execution standards and cooperate with us, we will make every effort to win orders for new nuclear power plant projects in the Netherlands in the future,” they added.

Formal signatures on the document were provided by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaithong Kommasith. The nuclear cooperation agreement establishes a basis for discussions regarding a potential Russian-designed nuclear power plant in Laos and creates a legal structure for future collaboration between the two countries in the nuclear sector.

The agreement provides the foundation for broader bilateral engagement in nuclear energy and enables both countries to begin assessing the viability of a nuclear energy project in Laos. As part of the first phase under the nuclear cooperation agreement, the parties intend to carry out a preliminary feasibility study examining how nuclear energy could be integrated into the Lao power system. The assessment will focus on determining the most suitable project configuration while also identifying possible locations for a future nuclear power plant. Results from the study are expected to support decision-making by the Lao government as it considers whether to advance a national nuclear energy program.

Rosatom stated that it has technologies for both floating and land-based small modular nuclear power plants and continues to strengthen energy cooperation across Southeast Asia. The nuclear cooperation agreement with Laos comes after several other nuclear energy arrangements involving Russia in the region. In March 2025, Russia and Myanmar signed an agreement covering the construction of a small modular nuclear power plant in Myanmar based on Russia’s RITM reactor technology.

On 23rd March 2026, Russia and Vietnam signed an intergovernmental agreement in Moscow for the construction of Vietnam’s first nuclear power plant, Ninh Thuan 1, using Russia’s Generation III+ VVER-1200 reactor technology. Rosatom said such projects could support industrial development, create jobs, strengthen workforce training, and improve long-term energy security in Southeast Asia.