MANILA– Department of Energy(DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla emphasized in an interview the crucial need for knowledge transfer before the country embarks on the operation of nuclear power plants.
Sec. told reporters that handling nuclear power requires sophisticated expertise.
He highlighted the necessity of knowledge transfer due to the complexities involved in nuclear operations.
One of the major considerations, he noted, is the potential misuse of nuclear technology for weapon production, alongside the need for proper management of radioactive materials to avoid future problems.
“Unlike coal power plants, which are less dangerous to handle, nuclear power plants require a deep understanding of the machinery and technology to ensure safety and efficiency,” Lotilla explained during an interview on the sidelines of a media training held here on July 10.
He also stressed the importance of having a designated place to deposit transferred materials, as this is a critical aspect of transporting nuclear materials.
The DOE plans to bring in experts in nuclear technology, recognizing its applications beyond the power sector, including agriculture and medicine, all of which need to be regulated.
Lotilla mentioned the existing Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), which already exercises several regulatory powers.
The DOE Secretary projected that the possibility of having a nuclear power plant in the country might materialize in the late 2020s or early 2030s.
(ROBERT DEJON)
