U.S. and Philippines sign nuclear technology deal at APEC Summit
MANILA (Reuters) – In a groundbreaking move towards energy independence and decarbonization, the United States and the Philippines have signed a historic agreement to allow Washington to export nuclear technology and material to Manila.
“The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced during a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco.
The negotiations for the 123 Agreement, which began in November 2022, have culminated in this significant step towards cooperation in the field of nuclear energy.
“We see nuclear energy becoming a part of the Philippines’ energy mix by 2032 and we are more than happy to pursue this path with the United States,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr stated in a speech. “Nuclear energy is one area where we can show the Philippines-U.S. alliance and partnership truly works.”
This deal, which requires approval from the U.S. Congress, will facilitate the peaceful transfer of nuclear material, equipment, and information in compliance with non-proliferation requirements. As of the end of 2022, the United States had 23 similar agreements in place, covering 47 countries, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and democratically governed Taiwan.
The Philippines has been exploring nuclear power as a solution to its energy challenges, aiming to retire coal plants in line with climate goals and bolster energy security. The country faces issues such as volatile global oil prices, seasonal power outages, and high electricity rates.
Previous efforts to pursue nuclear energy in the Philippines were halted due to safety concerns. However, President Marcos has indicated a willingness to potentially revive the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, constructed in response to an energy crisis during the reign of his father, the late Philippines strongman Ferdinand Marcos.
Completed in 1984, the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was shut down just two years later following the elder Marcos’ ouster, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and allegations of corruption.
The signing of this agreement represents a significant step forward in the Philippines’ quest for energy independence and sustainability. It marks a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between Manila and Washington, as both countries work together towards a cleaner, more secure energy future.
(Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
The signing of the landmark deal between the United States and the Philippines to allow the export of nuclear technology and material signifies a significant shift towards exploring nuclear power as a means to decarbonize and boost energy independence. This agreement highlights the growing trend of countries seeking alternative sources of energy to combat climate change and ensure energy security.
The United States and the Philippines are working together to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure, with the goal of integrating nuclear energy into the Philippines’ energy mix by 2032. This partnership demonstrates the potential for collaboration between nations to address energy challenges and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The decision to pursue nuclear power in the Philippines comes as the country aims to retire coal plants, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security amidst rising global oil prices and power outages. By reviving a mothballed nuclear power plant and adhering to strict non-proliferation requirements, the Philippines seeks to leverage nuclear energy as a sustainable baseload power source.
Overall, the agreement reflects a broader trend towards exploring nuclear energy as a viable option for achieving climate goals and enhancing energy resilience in the face of evolving challenges in the energy sector.