Southeast Asia’s Nuclear Power Revival Driven by AI Data Center Boom and Energy Security Concerns
BANGKOK, Thailand — Nuclear power is gaining renewed attention in Southeast Asia as nations grapple with surging energy demands fueled by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) data centers and increasing anxieties over energy security. Several countries in the region are revisiting long-held atomic ambitions, with nearly half potentially having nuclear energy capacity by the 2030s.
Growing Energy Demand and the Rise of Data Centers
Southeast Asia will account for a quarter of global energy demand growth by 2035, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). This surge is significantly driven by the proliferation of data centers, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. There are currently more than 2,000 data centers operating in these countries, with approximately 300 under construction and around 1,140 more planned, according to think tank Ember.
A single standard AI data center consumes as much electricity as 100,000 households, highlighting the immense power requirements of this burgeoning industry.
Geopolitical Factors and Fossil Fuel Volatility
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is further exacerbating energy security concerns and accelerating the push for alternative energy sources. The surge in crude oil prices, triggered by escalating tensions, has motivated countries to expedite their nuclear energy initiatives. Asuncion-Astronomo of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute noted that nuclear energy can provide greater self-reliance in energy supply.
National Initiatives and Regional Trends
Several Southeast Asian nations are actively pursuing nuclear power development:
- Vietnam: Is building two nuclear plants, backed by the Russian state corporation Rosatom, considered “nationally significant, strategic projects.” Vietnam’s revised atomic energy law took effect in January.
- Indonesia: Added nuclear to its latest energy plan in 2023, aiming to build two small modular reactors by 2034. Canada and Russia have submitted formal cooperation proposals.
- Thailand: Set a target of adding 600 megawatts of nuclear generating capacity by 2037, viewing it as a “promising solution” for affordable, clean electricity.
- Philippines: A new atomic energy regulatory authority launched in 2023 is expected to facilitate the integration of nuclear power. The country has set a 2032 target and approved a roadmap for potential investors in February.
- Malaysia: Revived its nuclear program in 2023 and aims to bring atomic energy online by 2031, aspiring to become a regional AI computing hub.
Cambodia and Singapore are also signaling openness to nuclear energy, with Cambodia including it in its national strategy and Singapore planning studies on its potential.
Global Momentum and International Cooperation
The revival of nuclear interest in Southeast Asia aligns with a global trend. Nearly 40 nations are working to triple installed nuclear energy capacity by 2050. The World Nuclear Association estimates that Southeast Asia will account for nearly a quarter of the 157 gigawatts expected from “newcomer nuclear nations” by mid-century.
The U.S. Is supporting these efforts, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio signing an agreement with Malaysia in 2023 to promote civil nuclear cooperation. Former President Donald Trump also advocated for quadrupling U.S. Nuclear power within 25 years.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the growing momentum, concerns remain regarding nuclear safety, waste management, and supply chain vulnerabilities. The cataclysmic events at Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) underscore the potential risks. Experts emphasize the need for careful consideration of these challenges and the importance of prioritizing safety and responsible development.
As the world falls further behind on its climate goals, nuclear energy is being viewed as a more attractive option, but it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and explore alternative solutions like renewable energy sources.
Associated Press writers Aniruddha Ghosal in Hanoi, Vietnam contributed to this report.
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