President Daniel Noboa introduces a nuclear energy proposal as part of a broader strategy to modernize Ecuador’s electricity model by 2029.

In a bold move to reshape Ecuador’s energy future, President Daniel Noboa announced a proposed Nuclear Energy Bill aimed at introducing nuclear power into the country’s energy mix. The bill, which will be presented to the National Assembly, marks a significant step in diversifying the country’s electricity sources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels and vulnerable resources. The announcement came on May 24, 2025, during Noboa’s presidential inauguration for the 2025-2029 term.

A Vision for Sustainable Energy

In his speech, Noboa outlined the role nuclear energy could play in Ecuador’s future energy strategy, emphasizing that it would serve as a clean, safe, and modern energy alternative. The president made it clear that nuclear power would be harnessed strictly for peaceful, productive purposes, contributing to the country’s sustainability goals. As part of a broader transformation of the energy sector, the proposal also includes investments in renewable resources, the restructuring of state-owned energy companies, and partnerships with the private sector to enhance the country’s energy independence.

The Roadmap for Nuclear Energy Implementation

Ecuador’s nuclear energy journey is already underway. In February 2025, Vice Minister of Electricity, Fabián Calero, unveiled a roadmap for implementing nuclear power in the country. The first phase involves the installation of a modular reactor designed to generate 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity. The plan aims to eventually develop a 1 gigawatt (1,000 MW) nuclear plant, capable of providing a high percentage of Ecuador’s electricity demand by 2029.

The initial phase is being supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), with a contract to promote the project signed in May 2025. The nuclear plant, set to be operational by 2029, is expected to have a lifespan of 40 years.

Key Phases of the Nuclear Plan

The nuclear energy plan is structured in four distinct stages:

1. Preparatory Stage (Completed by January 2025): Preliminary groundwork and assessments have been completed.
2. Stage 1 (February-May 2025): Technical evaluations and regulatory framework development.
3. Stage 2 (May-October 2025): Establishment of entities within the Ministry of Energy to oversee the project’s implementation.
4. Stage 3 (2026): A public tender process to select the company responsible for constructing the nuclear plant.

Challenges on the Horizon

Despite the ambitious plan, there are several challenges to overcome. The high capital investment required for nuclear projects, coupled with operational risks, geological threats, and the management of radioactive waste, make the path to nuclear energy a complex one. These hurdles will need to be addressed carefully to ensure the long-term viability of the project.

The Role of Renewable Energy in Ecuador’s Future

Ecuador is fortunate to possess a wealth of renewable energy resources, including hydroelectric, solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass power. These resources have yet to be fully exploited, and energy expert Jorge Luis Hidalgo views the government’s nuclear proposal positively, provided that it does not overshadow the development of these renewable sources.

Hidalgo also highlighted the technical challenges nuclear energy presents, noting that its successful implementation requires a high level of expertise, strict safety protocols, and long-term management capabilities—areas where Ecuador has struggled in the past.

The Future of Ecuador’s Energy Mix

While the transition to nuclear energy presents numerous challenges, it also signals a significant shift in Ecuador’s approach to energy production. By diversifying its energy matrix and investing in both renewable and nuclear power, the government hopes to build a more resilient and sustainable energy system capable of meeting the needs of the population while minimizing environmental impacts.