Indonesia targets first nuclear power plant by 2032–2034

The project is part of a broader plan to reach 44 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2060, aligned with the country’s net-zero emissions commitment.

“Of that 44 gigawatts, 35 will generate electricity, while 9 will support hydrogen production starting in 2045,” Kusdiana explained.

Under the National Electricity Planning (RUPTL) 2025–2034, Indonesia’s initial target is 500 megawatts of nuclear capacity, strategically deployed from 2032 in Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Kusdiana highlighted that Indonesia’s nuclear policy rests on a strong legal foundation, citing the 1997 Nuclear Energy Act and the 2025 National Energy Policy Regulation, which explicitly mandate nuclear power as a balancing element in the energy mix.

The government intends to prioritize small modular reactor (SMR) technology, which offers flexibility for archipelagic nations.

“SMR is a perfect fit for our industrial hubs and the growing blue economy across our islands,” he said.

He noted that nuclear energy is re-emerging in Southeast Asia, with ASEAN’s five largest energy consumers—Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam—exploring nuclear options through the Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-sector Network (NEC-SSN).

Despite opportunities, Kusdiana acknowledged challenges including high upfront costs, political hurdles, and public concerns over disaster risks.

To address these, Indonesia is focusing on three pillars: site selection, regulatory milestones, and international cooperation.

“Reaching our nuclear targets requires consistent implementation and broad support. This is not just about technology—it’s about building trust and ensuring long-term resilience,” Kusdiana emphasized.