Nay Pyi Taw, September 23

Myanmar has included Small Modular Reactor (SMR)-based nuclear power generation as an option under its diversified energy policy to meet growing electricity demand and ensure long-term energy security, President U Min Aung Hlaing said on September 23.

He made the remarks at the first meeting of the National-Level Steering Committee for the Implementation of Nuclear Energy, held at the Presidential Office in Nay Pyi Taw. He said Myanmar’s energy policy should be based on an energy mix comprising renewable energy, natural gas and other energy sources, while nuclear energy should also be studied as an option for providing a stable supply of electricity.

The President said nuclear technology could be applied not only to electricity generation but also in healthcare, agriculture, food safety, industry and research. Its implementation, he added, should give priority to international standards and the “3S” principles of Safety, Security and Safeguards.

Regarding international cooperation, he said Myanmar would work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on technical cooperation, expert exchanges and human resource development. He also said agreements had been reached with Russia’s state-owned ROSATOM on cooperation in nuclear technology, human resource development and electricity generation using SMR technology.

U Min Aung Hlaing also called for the formulation of a Roadmap and Action Plans for future implementation, stronger coordination among relevant ministries, and greater emphasis on human resource development.

He said Myanmar’s nuclear energy programme should be based on the national interest, adding that cooperation with international partners should be assessed against the country’s long-term energy requirements, economic conditions, technological and human resource capabilities, and security situation. He also called for designated projects to be implemented in a timely manner.