Powering the Future : Nuclear Potentially Can help Malaysia to Become Clean Energy Hub
Malaysia stands as one of the most highly developed nations in Southeast Asia, marked by impressive economic growth and a resolute vision for a sustainable future. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, Malaysia has set ambitious goals to become a carbon-neutral nation by 2050, with a targeted 70% renewable capacity by the same year. However, as promising as these figures are, it's important to note that renewable energy (RE) alone may not suffice to entirely replace fossil fuels as the primary baseload energy source. Recognizing this challenge, another low-carbon energy source, such as nuclear power, has emerged as a viable alternative to complement RE through hybrid technology in the energy mix. Nuclear energy offers reliable baseload power to complement renewables, boasts low lifecycle emissions, and, given improved economics, is well-suited for integration into Malaysia's energy grid. By embracing nuclear power and harnessing electricity exports, Malaysia can not only achieve its clean energy goals but also solidify its position as a regional clean energy hub.
The Road to Carbon Neutrality: Malaysia's 2050 Vision
Malaysia stands as one of the most highly developed nations in Southeast Asia, boasting impressive economic growth and a vision for a sustainable future. Recent modeling of the Total Primary Energy Source (TPES) indicates that Malaysia's energy demand is set to increase marginally, at a rate of 0.2% annually, from 95 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2023 to 102 Mtoe by 2050. This projected growth coincides with an expected rise in the country's population, which is anticipated to surpass 40 million people by 2050.
With an eye on a greener and more sustainable future, Malaysia has set ambitious goals to become a carbon-neutral nation by 2050. Achieving this target will necessitate substantial changes to the nation's energy infrastructure and policies. Currently, fossil fuels contribute to approximately 75% of Malaysia's electricity generation. To progress toward the 2050 goal, Malaysia has already taken concrete steps. These include phasing out older coal plants. In June 2023, the Ministry of Economy unveiled an ambitious renewable energy target, aiming to achieve 70% renewable energy capacity by 2050. To meet this target, Malaysia anticipates a significant investment of nearly $150 billion in the renewable energy sector. This substantial capital infusion will be directed toward major investments in grid infrastructure and energy storage.
Renewable energy (RE) development in Malaysia has been on an upward trajectory, contributing a significant amount of energy in 2017, reaching 6947 kilotons of oil equivalent (ktoe). This represents a threefold increase compared to the year 2000. However, as promising as these figures are, RE alone may not have the capacity to replace fossil fuels as the primary baseload energy source. In light of this, another low-carbon energy source, such as nuclear power, has emerged as a viable alternative to complement RE through hybrid technology in the energy mix.
Challenges towards nuclear power development in Malaysia
Malaysia once explored the potential of nuclear energy as an alternative to fossil fuels for baseload power generation. In the past, the country had an ambitious nuclear program with plans to establish two operational nuclear power plants by 2021. However, these plans took an unexpected turn and were indefinitely postponed, ultimately leading to the disbandment of the Malaysia Nuclear Power Cooperation in 2018.
In a recent discussion with Dato’ Raja Dr. Abdul Aziz, a principal advisor at eCEOs and a Board Member of Malaysian Atomic Energy Licensing Board, he emphasized the complexity of revisiting nuclear power in Malaysia. Addressing various concerns associated with this prospect is essential. While recognizing the undeniable benefits of nuclear energy, such as low greenhouse gas emissions and reliable electricity generation, a cautious and forward-looking approach is crucial.
One primary concern is the revival of Malaysia's nuclear energy program. This requires a strong and sustained political commitment. Malaysia holds national elections every five years, and its robust democratic processes are a crucial backdrop. Establishing a bipartisan, or rather, a cross-party consensus to oversee and guide the nuclear program is necessary. This approach would depoliticize the issue, ensure continuity, and provide a stable foundation for nuclear energy planning and implementation. Without such political commitment and consensus, the program's future could be uncertain, leading to inefficiencies and potential setbacks.
Furthermore, there are several key considerations, including safety and security concerns, waste management, and the safe disposal of long-term nuclear waste. Additionally, the significant financial investments and long construction timelines associated with nuclear projects can lead to cost overruns. Public perception and education also play a vital role in the acceptance of nuclear power. It's worth noting that public acceptance varies, even in countries where it is high, such as Indonesia, which has yet to adopt nuclear power.
Incorporating technological advancements, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), designed to enhance safety and efficiency, is another important factor for Malaysia to consider. Evaluating how these newer technologies align with the country's energy goals and whether they offer a more favorable risk-benefit profile is crucial.
Despite these considerations, social and financial restrictions have decelerated efforts to realize nuclear power development in Malaysia. Public acceptance remains a critical factor, influenced by mass media coverage, and depictions in movies.
Integration of Nuclear and Renewable Energy
Nuclear energy is a reliable, low-carbon energy source that can complement renewables. The concept of a nuclear-renewable hybrid system has gained momentum as a perfect solution for countries that seek to produce electricity using both nuclear and renewable energy sources. This integration and coordination of multiple clean energy generation sources offer an opportunity to maximize the utilization of clean energy technologies, ensuring both efficiency and cost-effectiveness. According to Khalis and Bicer's study has identified Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as the most suitable advanced reactors for hybridizing nuclear and renewable energy. Co-locating these technologies in a single facility enhances their competitive edge in the energy sector, thus ensuring a sustainable and green energy supply for future generations.
Small modular reactors offer even more flexibility and cost savings compared to traditional large reactors. Their ability to provide incremental capacity additions, passive safety features, and suitability for locations unsuitable for large reactors makes them an attractive choice. With the right policies, nuclear energy can become an affordable and clean energy option for Malaysia. Moreover, modern nuclear reactors incorporate the latest safety features, resulting in very low accident risks.
Small modular reactors offer even more flexibility and cost savings compared to traditional large reactors. Their ability to provide incremental capacity additions, passive safety features, and suitability for locations unsuitable for large reactors makes them an attractive choice. With the right policies, nuclear energy can become an affordable and clean energy option for Malaysia. Moreover, modern nuclear reactors incorporate the latest safety features, resulting in very low accident risks.
If successfully adopted, nuclear energy can allow Malaysia to become a major clean electricity exporter. Malaysia already has good electricity connectivity to neighboring countries through existing grids. Nuclear plants can provide large, reliable amounts of electricity that can be exported via cross border transmission lines. As Southeast Asian countries shift their energy mix to combat climate change, there will be increased demand for clean electricity imports. Malaysia can leverage its geographic connectivity to serve such demand. Becoming a major exporter can also help Malaysia gain greater energy security and influence within the region. In summary, nuclear energy has characteristics that can significantly help Malaysia decarbonize its energy system and become a clean energy leader. Nuclear provides reliable baseload power to complement renewables, has low lifecycle emissions, and is suitable for Malaysia's grid once economics improve. By adopting nuclear power and leveraging electricity exports, Malaysia can meet its clean energy goals and cement its position as a regional clean energy hub.
