Singapore signs first nuclear partnership agreements and launches three capability programmes
Partnership agreements signed at Singapore International Energy Week 2026
Singapore's Energy Market Authority (EMA) has signed its first partnership agreements under the Singapore Nuclear Manpower Development Programme, with AtkinsRéalis, China National Nuclear Corporation Overseas and X-energy. The signings took place at Singapore International Energy Week 2026 and mark a concrete step in the country's effort to develop the technical workforce needed to evaluate advanced nuclear energy technologies for potential power generation use.
Under the programme, public officials involved in energy development will gain on-the-job experience with international nuclear organisations from 2027 onwards. Placements will span project development, licensing, construction and regulatory frameworks, providing structured exposure across the nuclear project lifecycle.
Three programmes target government, industry and strategic advisory needs
Alongside the manpower development programme, the EMA has introduced two further initiatives. The second scheme targets Singapore-based businesses, offering funding for selected company personnel to participate in training programmes and industry attachments with international partners. The objective is to equip staff with competencies that support their organisations in advancing nuclear strategy and capability-building.
The third initiative, the Singapore Future Energy Fellowship, is designed to bring distinguished international energy leaders to Singapore to provide independent strategic advice on long-term energy policy, including low-carbon technologies such as nuclear. The first fellows are to be appointed in 2026, with a specific remit to support preparations for an IAEA Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Phase 1 Mission expected in 2027.
Consultant panel appointed to cover all 19 IAEA Milestones Approach areas
The EMA has also announced the appointment of a panel of consultants to support capability-building across the 19 areas defined by the IAEA Milestones Approach, the framework used by countries embarking on a nuclear energy programme. The panel's work will feed directly into Singapore's preparations for the forthcoming INIR Phase 1 Mission.
An INIR mission brings together international experts with direct experience in specialised nuclear infrastructure areas alongside IAEA staff. The process enables in-depth discussion of best practices in nuclear power infrastructure development, with recommendations provided in a report that the member state can use to update its national action plan.
EMA Chief Executive Puah Kok Keong stated that developing the capabilities to rigorously assess the safety and suitability of nuclear energy forms an important part of efforts to strengthen Singapore's energy security, and that the authority looks forward to working with the consultant panel ahead of the INIR Phase 1 Mission.
