Enviro News Asia, South Tangerang — The Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional is strengthening Indonesia’s nuclear energy development by expanding international cooperation and studying advanced reactor technologies to support the national clean energy transition.
The agency participated in a benchmarking program on nuclear energy ecosystems in the United States from April 20 to 24, 2026, under the Foundational Infrastructure for the Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) initiative. The program aims to prepare the foundation for the safe and sustainable deployment of Small Modular Reactor systems.
Syaiful Bakhri stated in South Tangerang on April 30 that the activity serves as a strategic platform to strengthen communication and explore concrete international partnerships, particularly for SMR development and deployment in Indonesia. He explained that the program also functions as a coordination forum to address technological, regulatory, and national readiness aspects.
During the visit, BRIN reviewed ongoing SMR projects developed by companies such as NuScale Power, BWX Technologies, Kairos Power, and X-energy. These observations will inform Indonesia’s selection of suitable nuclear technologies.
BRIN emphasized its role in ensuring that selected technologies meet safety, security, and safeguard standards, while also demonstrating sufficient technological maturity. The agency also leads site selection studies for future nuclear power plants by assessing safety, environmental, and infrastructure factors.
In addition, BRIN is preparing the national nuclear workforce by developing technical experts, operators, and regulatory personnel, while promoting public acceptance through science-based education. The agency also supports the development of regulatory frameworks and joint research initiatives, including feasibility studies with international partners.
The program discussions also addressed financing strategies to ensure cost efficiency and competitive electricity pricing, as well as opportunities to strengthen domestic industrial participation in the nuclear supply chain. BRIN further plans to develop reactor simulators to accelerate technology mastery and workforce training.
Meanwhile, Perusahaan Listrik Negara confirmed it will follow up the benchmarking results by preparing an implementation roadmap for nuclear energy in line with government policy and by strengthening coordination with regulators and international partners.
Daniel Tumpal Simanjuntak highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing Indonesia’s nuclear program, noting support from the United States and collaboration with partners including Japan, South Korea, and Canada through strategic dialogue mechanisms.
Through its involvement in the FIRST program and expanded global partnerships, BRIN aims to ensure Indonesia’s readiness to integrate nuclear energy into its national energy mix as a reliable, safe, and sustainable solution. (*)
