Asia To Experience Nuclear Energy Resurgence

As the technology shakes off negative connotations and countries search for scalable and less emissions-intensive technologies than fossil fuels, Asia is witnessing a resurgence in interest in nuclear energy, as per the Swish-Swedish energy giant ABB. 

“There are policies or a history or a connotation that has not always been favourable for nuclear,” said Karen Bomber, chief commercial officer at ABB Energy Industries. “In parts of Europe, they had stopped investing decades ago, but now, with the impact of the war in Ukraine, there is investment and interest again because it is 100% carbon-free, whereas some of the other renewables are low carbon but not no carbon.”

In the past decades, Asian countries have experienced a slowdown, like Japan, which scaled back operations after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. However, the energy exacerbated by global geopolitical tensions and increasing demand for reliable and sustainable energy sources has led to a renewed focus on nuclear power in the region. 

“ABB is looking into how to scale up process and automation for SMRs (Small Modular Reactors) to make sure that we’re ready when specific countries and public perception are ready,” said Bomber, who spoke with Nikkei Asia while on a visit to Bangkok to meet regional clients. ABB. 

Asia is a growing region; this is the perfect example to showcase its success. Despite several market challenges, Asia managed to bring favourable outcomes.