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MEDIA RELEASE
29 September 2026
DOE Advances Proposed Rules for First Nuclear Power Capacity Tender
The Department of Energy (DOE) is advancing the proposed framework for the competitive procurement of the country’s first nuclear generation capacity, as it moves to establish the rules that will govern the conduct of nuclear power capacity tenders in the Philippines
The proposed framework forms part of the government’s preparations for the targeted entry of nuclear energy into the country’s power generation mix beginning in 2032, with an initial target capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW). The government’s energy plan envisions nuclear capacity increasing to 2,400 MW by 2035 and 4,800 MW by 2050.
At the second public consultation held today, 25 September 2026, at the DOE Auditorium in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, DOE Director Patrick T. Aquino presented revisions to the proposed Department Circular Prescribing the Guidelines on the Conduct of the Nuclear Generation Capacity Tender for the First Nuclear Power Plant and Succeeding Nuclear Power Plants.
The revised draft incorporates comments received during the first round of stakeholder consultation,including inputs from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, Meralco, and other industry stakeholders.
Among the proposed revisions are provisions covering grid readiness, project delivery schedules, regulatory approvals, and pricing parameters intended to provide clearer requirements for prospective bidders and ensure that nuclear capacity can be integrated into the country’s power system.
Under the revised proposal, preliminary grid feasibility, where applicable, would be considered in determining the capacity to be offered in each tender. Bid requirements would also consider substations and connection points, transmission requirements, and grid synchronization.
The DOE also proposes to procure nuclear generation capacity in stages, with delivery schedules taking into account site development, technology, financing, licensing, and grid readiness. Construction timelines would be aligned with the nuclear technology to be deployed and the winning bidder’s approved proposal.
Winning a nuclear generation capacity tender, however, would not constitute authorization to construct or operate a nuclear facility. Construction and other regulated activities could proceed only upon securing the required authorization from the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM), as well as other applicable permits and approvals.
PhilATOM would retain authority over nuclear safety and regulatory matters, including siting, construction, commissioning, operation, and other activities within its mandate, while the DOE would administer the competitive procurement of generation capacity.
The revised draft also sets parameters for price offers. Bids exceeding the applicable nuclear tender price or price ceiling would be subject to disqualification in accordance with the terms of the tender and applicable regulations.
The Energy Regulatory Commission would determine the applicable price threshold, reserve price, tariff range, or pricing methodology for each tender round.
The proposed Circular remains under consultation. Inputs received during the second public consultation will be evaluated by the DOE before the guidelines are finalized, as the government works to establish a competitive, transparent, and technically sound procurement framework for the targeted entry of nuclear energy into the country’s generation mix.
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