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Nuclear energy ambitions across Southeast Asia are higher than ever. Governments are facing consequential choices that could determine whether nuclear energy becomes a problem-solver or a problem-maker. NTI’s Ross Matzkin-Bridger explains the stakes in a paper published by the Hinrich Foundation. 🧵

Choice 1: Who owns the reactor? A nuclear deal can last a century, longer than most political coalitions and vendors. Own and operate the reactor yourself, and you take more risk, but gain energy security, skills, and a workforce. Foreign ownership flips that trade.

Choice 2: Which technology? The global nuclear reactor market is flooded with over 100 different designs. If the goal is power at scale within 15 years, focus on ready-to-deploy and on-the-cusp technologies, SMRs included. Don't confuse deployable assets with science projects.

Choice 3: Where does the fuel come from? 1 supplier to handle all pieces of the fuel supply chain is simple, but builds dependency. Going fully domestic is costly & draws scrutiny. Likely sweet spot: diverse suppliers, + pieces of the supply chain, such as fuel fabrication, built in the region.

Choice 4: What happens to the waste? A winning plan: Fund waste management early, build interim storage before the reactors, and consider a regional approach to final disposition. The idea of reprocessing spent fuel brings intractable technical problems, cost challenges, and geopolitical scrutiny.