QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The governments of Canada and France both reaffirmed their support for the Philippines in its pursuit of a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
The second day of the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum (PINSCF) 2024 also saw Canada and France emerge as key players in advancing discussions on nuclear energy, showcasing their extensive experience and technological innovations in the sector.
Canada, recognized for its leadership in nuclear energy, highlighted its innovative reactor designs and stringent safety measures. With 19 operational reactors contributing approximately 15% of the nation’s electricity, Canada possesses comprehensive knowledge across the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining to reactor operation and decommissioning.
In his welcome address, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman underscored Canada’s commitment to assisting the Philippines in achieving its nuclear energy goals.
He noted the country’s robust nuclear infrastructure, which includes modern reactor technologies and financial solutions through Export Development Canada.
“Canada is ready to provide a full suite of expertise and resources to ensure the Philippines’ success in nuclear energy,” Hartman stated.
The Philippine Energy Plan’s Clean Energy Scenario aims to integrate 1,200 megawatts (MW) of nuclear energy by 2032, with ambitions to increase this to 2,400 MW by 2035 and 4,800 MW by 2050. This phased approach is designed to enhance energy security, support economic development, and address climate change challenges.
French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel also addressed attendees, announcing ongoing discussions between the French Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Philippine Department of Energy.
The two nations aim to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on energy transition and nuclear programs, focusing on training, research, and skill development in nuclear energy.
Fontanel emphasized the role of nuclear energy in stabilizing France against fluctuations in global energy markets.
“Our experience demonstrates the critical advantages of nuclear power in national development,” she said.
France is also considering a grant to assist the Philippine government in evaluating potential sites for nuclear facilities.
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Jose Francisco Benitez stressed the importance of a skilled workforce in the nuclear sector.
“Our primary task is to ensure that our country has the capacity to meet this demand by developing a local talent pool capable of supporting every aspect of the nuclear supply chain, from safety and operations to regulatory compliance and emergency preparedness,” he said.
Benitez expressed optimism about the collaboration between Canada and France in workforce development, stating, “We look forward to working together on training and skills transfer to empower our workforce and establish a secure foundation for nuclear energy management in the Philippines.”
The forum, attended by over 160 stakeholders from various global and local sectors, including private entities and civil society organizations, aimed to foster cooperation and knowledge exchange in the nuclear field. (JLN/PIA-NCR)
