The aim is to “help Singapore build the capabilities to assess the suitability of advanced nuclear energy technologies for power generation in Singapore” and prepare for an International Atomic Energy Agency Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Mission next year.
The first of the three schemes is the Singapore Nuclear Manpower Development Programme which “will facilitate capability-building partnerships between Singapore government agencies and leading global nuclear organisations through structured manpower development programmes”.
Starting from 2027, public officials involved in energy development in Singapore will get on-the-job experience with a range of companies involved in the nuclear energy sector, including project development, licensing, construction and regulation frameworks.
At Singapore International Energy Week 2026, which is currently taking place, the Energy Market Authority is signing the first partnership agreements for the scheme, with AtkinsRéalis, China National Nuclear Corporation Overseas and X-energy.
A second programme will focus on businesses, providing funding for “personnel in selected Singapore-based companies on an as-invited basis, to participate in training programmes and industry attachments with credible international partners. The training would equip the personnel with the competencies to support their respective companies in advancing their nuclear strategy and capability-building efforts”.
The third scheme is the Singapore Future Energy Fellowship which aims to “bring in distinguished international energy leaders to provide independent, strategic advice on Singapore’s long-term energy strategy, including energy policy and low-carbon technologies such as nuclear energy”.
The first fellows are to be appointed this year, to help with preparation for the IAEA-led mission expected next year. The Energy Market Authority has also announced to support the building of Singapore’s capabilities across the 19 areas covered by the IAEA Milestones Approach for countries embarking on a nuclear energy programme.
Puah Kok Keong, Chief Executive of the Energy Market Authority, pictured above at Singapore International Energy Week, said: “Developing the capabilities to rigorously assess the safety and suitability of nuclear energy is an important part of our efforts to explore ways to strengthen Singapore’s energy security. We look forward to partnering with the panel of consultants to strengthen our technical capabilities and support Singapore’s preparations for the INIR Phase 1 Mission next year.”
An Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review mission consists of a team of international experts, who have direct experience in specialised nuclear infrastructure areas, and IAEA staff. The IAEA says that the missions “enable IAEA Member State representatives to have in-depth discussions with international experts about experiences and best practices in nuclear power infrastructure development. Recommendations and suggestions are provided in a report to the Member State, enabling it to update its national action plan accordingly”.
