Indonesia Nuclear Energy Plan: First Power Plant Targeted to Operate by 2032
Government prioritizes small modular reactors to support energy transition and net zero goals
Indonesia is moving forward with plans to introduce nuclear energy into its national power mix, targeting the operation of its first nuclear power plant in the early 2030s.
Indonesia Targets First Nuclear Plant by 2032
Indonesia aims to begin operating its first nuclear power plant between 2032 and 2034 as part of its long-term energy transition strategy.
Dadan Kusdiana, secretary-general of the National Energy Council, said the project is included in the country’s broader efforts to achieve net zero emissions while strengthening energy security.
Initial Capacity and Strategic Locations
Under the 2025–2034 Electricity Supply Business Plan, the first nuclear facility will have an initial capacity of 500 megawatts.
Priority locations for the plant have been identified in Sumatra and Kalimantan, regions considered suitable for supporting Indonesia’s expanding electricity demand.
Long-Term Nuclear Capacity Targets
The government plans to significantly expand nuclear capacity over the coming decades.
Indonesia has set a target of reaching 44 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2060, with 35 gigawatts allocated for electricity generation and nine gigawatts planned to support hydrogen production beginning in 2045.
Small Modular Reactors as Key Technology
Indonesia intends to prioritise Small Modular Reactor technology due to its flexibility and suitability for the country’s archipelagic geography.
According to Kusdiana, SMRs are expected to support industrial centres and help drive blue economy development across Indonesia’s islands.
Regional Cooperation and Challenges
Indonesia is also working with other Southeast Asian countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam to explore nuclear development through the Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-sector Network.
However, officials acknowledge challenges such as high investment costs, political considerations and public concerns about safety and disaster risks.
Indonesia’s nuclear energy ambitions reflect a broader shift toward diversified and sustainable energy sources as the country prepares for rising electricity demand and climate commitments. Success will depend not only on technological readiness but also on public trust, strong regulations and international cooperation to ensure safe and reliable nuclear development.
Sources: ID Financials (2026) , EN Antara (2026)
Keywords: Indonesia Nuclear Power Plant, Small Modular Reactor Indonesia, National Energy Policy Indonesia, ASEAN Nuclear Cooperation, Indonesia Net Zero Strategy