Current nuclear energy technology "not suitable for use in S'pore"

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http://www.todayonline.com/Hotnews/EDC121015-0000110/Current-nuclear-energy-technology-not-suitable-for-use-in-Spore

Second Minister for Trade and Industry S Iswaran said a pre-feasibility study has concluded that current nuclear energy technology is not suitable for use in Singapore, even though the latest designs of nuclear power plants are much safer than older designs which remain in use in many countries.

The two-year study, which began in 2010, was conducted by the Ministry of Trade and Industry and involved several government agencies, external consultants and independent advisers.

Mr Iswaran was speaking in Parliament today in response to a question filed by MP for Nee Soon GRC Lee Bee Wah.

"The risks to Singapore, given that we are a small and dense city, still outweigh the benefits at this point. As we are planning for the very long-term and not for our immediate energy needs, we prefer to wait for technology and safety to improve further before reconsidering our options. Over time, nuclear power plants with safer and more robust designs will be developed," said Mr Iswaran.

Mr Iswaran added because nuclear energy will continue to be part of the energy mix for many countries, Singapore will have to monitor the progress of nuclear energy technologies.