With the National Assembly’s recent resolution to restart the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project, Vietnam is once again at the threshold of nuclear energy development.

As the country reinitiates its nuclear ambitions, the question arises: which technology should Vietnam adopt for its future nuclear power plants?

Nuclear energy is recognized for its reliability, capacity to provide base-load power, and minimal greenhouse gas emissions.

These attributes make it a sustainable, green energy source that aligns with Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as pledged at COP26.

On November 30, the National Assembly passed a resolution at its 8th session, allowing the government to allocate resources to resume the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project after an eight-year hiatus.

Previously, the sites for the Ninh Thuan 1 and 2 plants underwent rigorous international-standard assessments, making them suitable for nuclear power development in Vietnam.

Global trends in nuclear technology

The Institute of Energy under Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade highlights global trends in nuclear energy:

Generation III+ Light Water Reactors (LWRs): These reactors are widely adopted for new nuclear plants due to their advanced safety features and proven reliability.

Generation IV Reactors: Still under research, these reactors promise greater sustainability, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced nuclear waste.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): These are gaining attention for their flexibility, shorter construction times, and suitability for smaller-scale power grids.

Most nuclear power plants under construction worldwide are Generation III+ LWRs with capacities ranging from 1,000 to 1,700 MW. Their designs incorporate lessons from past incidents, such as the Fukushima disaster in 2011, with enhanced safety systems, including passive and active measures, advanced simulation tools, and artificial intelligence for predictive analysis.

Options for Vietnam: Large-scale vs. small-scale reactors

Large-Scale Reactors (Generation III+ LWRs):

Advantages: Proven technology with decades of operational experience; High energy density and carbon efficiency;
Consistent power output unaffected by weather conditions.

Challenges: Requires substantial investment and long construction times; Social consensus and waste management pose ongoing challenges;

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):

Advantages: Shorter construction periods and lower initial investment; Greater site flexibility due to smaller footprints; Easier integration with renewable energy systems and regional power grids.

Challenges: Limited operational experience and ongoing technological development; Not yet widely commercialized, posing higher risks for early adopters;

SMRs, including floating designs, offer the advantage of mobility and could supplement power in coastal or remote areas. However, their experimental status raises concerns about feasibility and reliability in commercial deployment.

Expert opinions

Ha Dang Son, Director of the Energy and Green Growth Research Center, cautions against adopting unproven SMR technologies, emphasizing the risks associated with nuclear energy and the stringent requirements of international regulatory bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

According to Son, the procedural complexities for SMR and large-scale nuclear projects are comparable, making large-scale reactors a safer and more practical choice for Vietnam.

“We should focus on large-scale projects with proven technology,” he suggests, adding that SMRs could become viable in 10 to 20 years as the technology matures.

The Institute of Energy recommends creating a comprehensive nuclear energy development plan that evaluates the potential for large, small, and ultra-small reactors. It also advocates for identifying feasible sites beyond Ninh Thuan, including the replacement of aging coal-fired power plants with nuclear facilities.

As Vietnam revisits its nuclear energy agenda, the decision between established and emerging technologies will significantly shape the country’s energy landscape. Prioritizing safety, proven efficiency, and adaptability to future advancements will be crucial for a successful nuclear energy strategy.

Tam An