Brian Jeffrey
This morning, the National Assembly approved the updated Atomic Energy Law, which introduces specific mechanisms and guidelines to enhance investment in nuclear power facilities and research reactors.
The legislation requires the government to actively encourage the development and use of atomic energy for peaceful applications, aiming to foster socio-economic growth, protect the environment, and enhance quality of life. It also seeks to bolster national energy independence and diversify funding sources for atomic energy advancements.
The government has a duty to allocate budget resources for scientific research and technological progress in the atomic energy sector, which includes the establishment and functioning of a national radiation monitoring and alert system.
Moreover, the law offers special incentives for training, development, and hiring of personnel, as well as investment in technical infrastructure, tools, and laboratories for academic and research institutions.
The recent legislation features transitional clauses that allow the continuation of previously established special policies regarding nuclear power and research reactor projects until they are superseded by new legal frameworks.
Nuclear projects that receive approval prior to the law’s enforcement will be executed under the national energy development plan, even if local, provincial, or sector plans are yet to be revised.
Site selection for nuclear plants must prioritize national security
The law defines clear criteria for choosing sites for nuclear power plants. Investors are obligated to perform comprehensive evaluations of natural and human-related aspects that could affect the safety of nuclear facilities.
Site assessments must take into account potential radiation hazards to individuals and the environment, along with population density and emergency response readiness.
In addition, considerations such as national defense, safety, and public security are crucial. This includes evaluating risks from unauthorized access, sabotage, terrorism, and other factors that could compromise the safety and security during the construction, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities.
The Prime Minister has the authority to sanction plant locations, either prior to or alongside the approval of nuclear power project investments.
Robust safety and security management throughout the facility’s lifecycle
Before the decision, Le Quang Huy, Chairman of the National Assembly Committee for Science, Technology, and Environment, emphasized that policies have been adjusted and clarified, designating the government to create specific regulations.
These regulations will cover areas such as training assistance, employee incentives, public-private collaboration, and enriched international partnerships in atomic energy.
The draft law has undergone thorough reviews and modifications to encompass all phases of nuclear power plant development, including investment, construction, operation, and decommissioning.
It also outlines requirements for ongoing safety and security monitoring throughout the lifecycle of the plant, ensuring consistency with legal standards and alignment with international practices and IAEA recommendations.
Recognizing the critical nature of radiation, nuclear, and security safety, the law establishes a national authority for radiation and nuclear safety, compliant with IAEA standards, international agreements, global practices, and the unique situation of Vietnam.
The legislation includes an entire chapter dedicated to radiation safety, protection, nuclear safety, and nuclear security. It outlines rules regarding the management, treatment, and disposal of radioactive waste, expired radioactive materials, and spent nuclear fuel.
Tran Thuong
