17 March 2025
- RSIS
- Publication
- External Publications
- Deploying Small Modular Reactors in East Asia: Implications on Nuclear Governance
Deploying Small Modular Reactors in East Asia: Implications on Nuclear Governance
Abstract
Advancing small modular reactor (SMR) technology presents a viable, clean energy alternative from nuclear power, addressing the escalating energy demands in Northeast Asian and Southeast Asian countries. The East Asian region is witnessing a renewed interest in nuclear power, with Northeast Asian nations actively participating in business and technological investments for developing SMR projects. Concurrently, Southeast Asian countries are exploring SMRs as a potential future source of clean energy for commercial use.
This article provides an overview of SMR projects in Northeast Asia and recent developments in Southeast Asia. It examines the potential implications of SMR deployment on nuclear safety and security regimes and how countries in the region can play an active role in reviewing and, if necessary, reshaping civilian nuclear governance to accommodate and address the specific challenges posed by deploying new types of reactors in the region.
Abstract
Advancing small modular reactor (SMR) technology presents a viable, clean energy alternative from nuclear power, addressing the escalating energy demands in Northeast Asian and Southeast Asian countries. The East Asian region is witnessing a renewed interest in nuclear power, with Northeast Asian nations actively participating in business and technological investments for developing SMR projects. Concurrently, Southeast Asian countries are exploring SMRs as a potential future source of clean energy for commercial use.
This article provides an overview of SMR projects in Northeast Asia and recent developments in Southeast Asia. It examines the potential implications of SMR deployment on nuclear safety and security regimes and how countries in the region can play an active role in reviewing and, if necessary, reshaping civilian nuclear governance to accommodate and address the specific challenges posed by deploying new types of reactors in the region.
