Southeast Asian governments and their partners will need to take the time to thoroughly evaluate reactor technologies, negotiate supplier arrangements and develop the domestic expertise necessary to operate and regulate nuclear power safely and securely before they make any commitment to new build, a US thinktank has said.

The Washington-based Stimson Center said in a commentary that if they are to capitalise on the renewed interest in nuclear, countries in the region need to “begin now” to invest in sustained workforce development, strengthen regulatory infrastructure and cultivate a public that is informed on the benefits and risks of nuclear energy.

The commentary said a coordinated regional approach could help spread the cost burden and streamline nuclear adoption through joint feasibility studies, shared training centres, and regional safety and security exercises.