TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is examining the nuclear energy ecosystem in the United States to establish a foundation for the safe and sustainable development of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology in Indonesia. The U.S. is regarded as a reference point for nuclear reactor innovation, featuring industry leaders such as NuScale, BWX Technologies, Kairos Power, and X-Energy.
Syaiful Bakhri, Head of the Nuclear Energy Research Organization at BRIN, stated that the progress in SMR development by several U.S. firms could serve as a guide in determining the most suitable reactor technology for Indonesia. According to him, "Future cooperation is needed in preparing regulations for various reactor models," as noted in a written statement released on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
Syaiful revealed that BRIN participated in a benchmarking program for the U.S. nuclear energy ecosystem from April 20 to 24. This initiative is cited as a strategic effort to strengthen communication and explore concrete steps for international cooperation in Indonesia’s nuclear development.
During the forum, BRIN reaffirmed its responsibility for the technical and scientific aspects of national nuclear energy development in Indonesia, which has expressed openness to constructing its first Nuclear Power Plant (PLTN). BRIN’s mandate includes technology selection, site determination, and the reinforcement of human resources.
"Thus, Indonesia will possess a robust regulatory framework and be fully prepared when the technology is implemented," Syaiful remarked.
He added that joint research and development remains a priority, including the preparation of feasibility studies with international partners to identify the most appropriate technology. Syaiful emphasized the need for a sound financing scheme to ensure PLTN development is efficient and maintains a competitive levelized cost of electricity (LCOE).
"The PLTN simulator will serve as a critical facility for training, competency enhancement, and public education, supporting the readiness of operators and technical personnel in the future," he said.
As Tempo previously reported in the article 'Gairah Baru Investasi Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Nuklir' on May 18, 2025, proposals for the construction of Indonesia’s first PLTN have arrived from various nations. Among them is Russia, via the state nuclear corporation Rosatom, which submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources last year. Other interested parties include the United Kingdom, France, Japan, China, and South Korea.
Read: BRIN: 65.8% of Java's North Coast Hit by Severe Erosion
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
BRIN: 65.8% of Java's North Coast Hit by Severe Erosion
5 jam lalu
One of the triggers of the increasing erosion in Pantura is the massive development of settlements and economic centers in the area, says BRIN.
Super El Nino Expected to Form in Later Half of 2026, Researcher Says
22 jam lalu
BRIN Researcher shares updates on the formation of El NIno, which is expected to strengthen by the end of this year.
BRIN Technology Powers Food Services for Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims
11 hari lalu
Indonesian Hajj pilgrims will get ready-to-eat meals packaged with technology that allows them to be reheated with cold water.
Half-Hearted Response to Climate Crisis
15 hari lalu
The threat of a climate crisis is looming. The government's response still falls short.
BRIN Warns of Possible Return of Plague in Indonesia
22 hari lalu
The plague, known as one of the deadliest pandemics in the world, is transmitted through the bite of fleas that live on the bodies of rats.
Fact Check: The Truth Behind Meteor in East Lampung
24 hari lalu
Videos of a supposed meteor over East Lampung went viral. A Tempo fact check confirms the object was actually debris from a Chinese CZ-3B rocket.
Why Indonesia's BRIN Is Developing an Innovative Carbon Capture Reactor
25 hari lalu
This reactor innovation is a breakthrough amid stalled research on carbon capture and storage (CCUS) technology.
BRIN: Pink Moon Visible Across Indonesia on Wednesday Night
35 hari lalu
Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) says the public can witness the pink moon phenomenon on Wednesday night.
Indonesia, FAO Expand Global Cooperation on Sustainable Livestock
37 hari lalu
Indonesia's BRIN partners with FAO to advance science-based pathways for sustainable transformation of livestock systems.
Indonesia Eyes Stronger Food Reserves as 'Godzilla' El Nino Looms
39 hari lalu
Indonesia is strengthening national food reserves ahead of extreme El Nino potential.
