Safe nuclear power development essential for clean energy frontier: Japanese expert
Vietnam needs to acquire technologies to ensure the safe management of nuclear power plants, and establish an appropriate financial mechanism to secure the substantial initial investment capital for the plan, according to Hisanori Nei, Professor Emeritus of the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies of Japan.
Hisanori Nei, Professor Emeritus of the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies of Japan (L), provides an assessment of Vietnam's policy on nuclear power development as a stable energy source. (Photo: VNA)
Tokyo (VNA) - Vietnam needs to acquire technologies to ensure the safe management of nuclear power plants, and establish an appropriate financial mechanism to secure the substantial initial investment capital for the plan, according to Hisanori Nei, Professor Emeritus of the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies of Japan.
In an interview granted to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Japan on December 25, Nei, who is an expert on energy and nuclear safety policy, provided an assessment of Vietnam's policy on nuclear power development as a stable energy source.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring safety in operating nuclear power plants and securing sufficient investment for the scheme, saying that Vietnam can partner with Japan in this field.
The Japanese expert said nuclear energy is essential for achieving the global carbon neutrality goal.
There is an increasing international consensus in global media that suggests there is no alternative but to rely on nuclear energy, especially considering the instability of other renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, he said.
In response to concerns about nuclear safety, Japan has implemented regulations based on international standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other organisations, he said, adding that his country has also drawn valuable lessons from the Fukushima disaster, strengthening its electricity supply from external sources.
Nei expressed support for the 2022 report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), which states that nuclear energy is the most cost-effective decarbonisation source among current commercial technologies as the world moves towards achieving carbon neutrality. He stressed that nuclear power offers significant advantages as a clean energy source.
He also stated that nuclear energy not only contributes to Japan's energy supply but♍ also plays a key role in the global energy supply through Japan's nuclear power generation te♏chnology and supply chain./.
On November 30, 2024, the 15th National Assembly (NA) passed a resolution on the restart of the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project and continued study of the environmental impact of a nuclear power programme in Vietnam.
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The diplomat emphasised that Vietnam places the highest priority on the development of science, technology, and innovation, viewing them as critical drivers for the country’s advancement in the new development era.
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According to the Politburo’s Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, dated December 22, 2024, on making breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, this is considered a decisive factor in the development of nations. It is seen as a prerequisite and the best opportunity for Vietnam to become prosperous and powerful in the new era of the nation’s rise.
Vietnam’s demographic advantage, including a youthful population of 100 million in a “golden age”, further bolsters its ambitions. Its dynamic workforce, with a natural inclination toward science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), is a key asset in attracting private investment to innovation-driven sectors.
Vietnam views sci-tech as a decisive factor in national development and a key tool for achieving sustainable development goals, and is ready to boost sci-tech cooperation with Venezuela for mutual prosperity.
