Addis Ababa, March 9, 2026 (FMC) – Indonesia plans to commission its first nuclear power plant between 2032 and 2034. The initiative marks an important step in the country’s long-term energy transition strategy and supports its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, according to Dadan Kusdiana, Secretary-General of the National Energy Council of Indonesia.
Dadan Kusdiana noted that the nuclear programme forms part of a national roadmap that envisages up to 44 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2060. Of this amount, 35 gigawatts are expected to be used for electricity generation, while an additional 9 gigawatts will support hydrogen production from 2045, strengthening the development of clean energy technologies.
The initial stage of the project is included in the National Electricity Supply Business Plan for 2025–2034. Within this framework, Indonesia aims to introduce 500 megawatts of nuclear capacity starting in 2032.
The first facilities are planned for the regions of Sumatra and Kalimantan, reflecting a phased approach to integrating nuclear power into the national energy system, TV BRICS reported, citing its Indonesian media partner ANTARA.
The government also intends to prioritise small modular reactor technology, which offers flexibility and scalability for countries with dispersed territories. According to Kusdiana, such reactors are well suited to industrial clusters and the expanding maritime economy across Indonesia’s islands.
Interest in nuclear energy is also growing across Southeast Asia. ASEAN’s major energy consumers in the region, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, are exploring nuclear solutions and strengthening dialogue and cooperation in the sector.
The Secretary-General emphasised that the implementation of the programme will focus on careful site selection, regulatory progress and international partnerships. He added that sustained cooperation and long-term planning will be key to ensuring the successful development of nuclear energy in the country.