PH issues framework for nuclear power integration

The country has set the policy for its first commercially developed and operated nuke plant.

The Philippines’ Department of Energy (DOE) has issued its comprehensive framework for the integration of nuclear energy into the country’s power generation mix.

Under Department Circular (DC) No. 2005-10-0019, Manila formally established the policy foundations for the Philippines’ first commercially developed and operated nuclear power plant (NPP), designated as a Pioneer NPP.

“The Pioneer NPP will be treated as a baseload facility and granted priority dispatch in coordination with the DOE, the Independent Market Operator (IMO), and the System Operator (SO), regardless of the nuclear technology deployed,” the department said.

Within 90 days upon the circular’s issuance, the DOE will explore government participation models and financing options in collaboration with the Department of Finance, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, the Maharlika Investment Corporation, and other relevant agencies.

Grid readiness will also be prioritised to ensure seamless integration of nuclear power into the transmission system.

To support long-term financial viability, flexible contracting mechanisms such as auctions, direct contracting, or aggregation for industrial and economic zone use will be introduced.

The Energy Regulatory Commission, in consultation with stakeholders, will implement a Regulatory Asset Base-type model or a similar capital recovery mechanism, anchored on minimum contract terms of 25 years, extendable for another 25 years.

The Pioneer NPP will be automatically certified as an Energy Project of National Significance (EPNS), giving it access to incentives and fast-track processing under Executive Order No. 30.