The Challenges of Nuclear Power Plant Development in Indonesia: A Case of Thorium Power Plant in Bangka Island, Indonesia

Abstract

This paper discusses the challenges of nuclear power plant development in Indonesia. With a growing belief among policymakers that nuclear power could play a vital role in energy transition and diversification, it is important to analyse the process of nuclear decision-making. Drawing on the case of the development of the Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (TMSR) in Bangka Island, this paper aims to understand the social, political, and institutional aspects of thorium power plant development. More specifically, this paper elaborates on public acceptance and the regulatory environment of nuclear power development. This paper is mainly based on secondary data such as official reports, online media, and relevant academic research. We argue that nuclear power development requires not only good technological and risk management capacity but also strong public trust in the government and nuclear industry through information transparency and openness.