NEA to commission three nuclear safety studies

Work will review global standards.

Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) will commission three studies on nuclear safety standards and environmental considerations as the country assesses whether nuclear energy could be deployed safely.

The agency said the studies will examine international safety standards used by global bodies and national regulators, international environmental standards and regulatory frameworks for nuclear facilities, and environmental considerations for the potential deployment of nuclear energy in Singapore and the region.

NEA said the work will complement an ongoing Energy Market Authority study on the safety performance and technical feasibility of advanced nuclear energy technologies.

The agency said the aim is to build the knowledge and technical expertise needed for Singapore to independently assess the potential for safe nuclear deployment.

Singapore has been building nuclear safety capabilities through partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency and regulators in Finland, France, and the United States, whilst its Nuclear Safety Advisory Panel provides independent advice on nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.

NEA said the studies will also help Singapore prepare for a region in which neighbouring countries may deploy nuclear power plants.