JAKARTA – Indonesia aims for its first nuclear power plant (PLTN) to begin operations in the 2032–2034 period.

Dadan Kusdiana, secretary-general of the Dewan Energi Nasional (DEN), said the project forms part of the country’s long-term energy transition strategy and its commitment to achieving net zero emissions.

Under the 2025–2034 Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL), the initial nuclear capacity is set at 500 megawatts (MW) starting in 2032, with priority locations in Sumatra and Kalimantan.

The government has set a target of reaching 44 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear capacity by 2060.

“Of the total 44 gigawatts, 35 gigawatts will be used for power generation, while 9 gigawatts will support hydrogen production starting from 2045,” Kusdiana said, as quoted by Antara on (4/3).

Indonesia’s nuclear policy refers to the 1997 Nuclear Energy Law and the 2025 National Energy Policy Regulation, which includes nuclear power as a balancing component in the energy mix.

The government will prioritise Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, considered more flexible for electricity systems across the archipelago. “SMRs are well suited for industrial centres and the development of the blue economy across our islands,” he said.

At the regional level, five ASEAN countries with the largest energy consumption — Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam — have begun exploring nuclear options through cooperation under the Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-sector Network (NEC-SSN).

However, the government acknowledged several challenges, including the need for substantial investment.

According to data from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), the construction of a single nuclear power plant unit requires investment of around USD 3.8 billion, with a construction period of four to five years.

Other challenges include political dynamics and public concerns over disaster risks.

To address these, the strategy includes site determination, fulfilment of regulatory stages and strengthening international cooperation.

“To achieve our nuclear targets, consistent implementation and broad support are required. This is not only about technology, but also about building trust and ensuring long-term resilience,” Kusdiana said. (DH/ZH)