Indonesia has made a significant step towards establishing its first nuclear power station, as the Indonesian Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (Bapeten) has approved the site evaluation for the ThorCon 500 plant on Kelasa Island, Bangka Belitung Islands. PT Thorcon Power Indonesia submitted the evaluation request on January 21, 2025, and it was completed in 126 working days, well ahead of the intended one-year schedule. Last month, the company received authority to commence detailed assessments of the site’s suitability.

The process will adhere to the Site Evaluation Program and Site Evaluation Management System, which define studies on seismic activity, geological stability, volcanic hazards, climate data, human-induced risks, and radioactive dispersion. These evaluations are required to establish several licensing stages, including site, construction, commissioning, and operational permits.

State-owned PLN Nusantara Power and ThorCon International are also doing extensive feasibility studies. The arrangement was formalised via a Memorandum of Understanding. The study will look at reactor technology, safety systems, design characteristics, finance approaches, and potential cooperation structures.

Officials claim the project contributes to Indonesia’s goal of generating low-carbon, secure, and sustainable energy. The initiative marks a milestone toward diversifying the nation’s energy mix and enhancing long-term energy independence.