What is the primary goal of the Nuclear Learning & Understanding Society (NUCLEUS)?

NUCLEUS aims to provide the public with general knowledge about nuclear energy and help them understand the considerations involved in its adoption.

Does NUCLEUS advocate for or against nuclear energy in Singapore?

No, the society's role is strictly educational, and it does not advocate for or advise the government on nuclear energy as an option.

New Society Aims to Educate Public on Nuclear Energy

The Nuclear Learning & Understanding Society (NUCLEUS) has been formed to provide neutral information and address misconceptions about nuclear energy as Singapore considers its adoption.

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2026-10-11 · Updated 2026-10-11

A new ground-up initiative, the Nuclear Learning & Understanding Society (NUCLEUS), was established in September to foster public understanding of nuclear energy. The society aims to share general knowledge about the science and engineering behind nuclear power and explain why governments consider it as an energy source.

NUCLEUS was formed amid ongoing government assessments into the potential adoption of nuclear energy, a topic that can be sensitive and is marked by a gap in public awareness. Matthew Chew, president of NUCLEUS, noted that while many may support the idea of nuclear energy in principle, concerns often arise when considering its proximity to residential areas.

Common public concerns, such as the management of nuclear waste and safety, are among the topics NUCLEUS plans to address. Chew clarified that established methods like dry cask storage and deep underground geological storage exist to safely manage nuclear waste, preventing human and environmental exposure to radiation. A 2023 study indicated no major technical obstacles to storing Singapore's nuclear waste, though further on-site investigations are required.

The society, currently comprising 10 members, plans to host seminars, workshops, and school talks to engage the public. Their first networking event is scheduled for November. NUCLEUS emphasizes that its role is not to advocate for or against nuclear energy but to provide a non-judgmental space for the public to learn and ask questions.

Discussions also include the potential financing of advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), which are considered potentially more suitable for Singapore's land-scarce environment due to their smaller footprint and enhanced safety features. The society aims to build an informed ecosystem should Singapore decide to deploy SMRs in the future.

FAQ

What is the primary goal of the Nuclear Learning & Understanding Society (NUCLEUS)?: NUCLEUS aims to provide the public with general knowledge about nuclear energy and help them understand the considerations involved in its adoption.
Does NUCLEUS advocate for or against nuclear energy in Singapore?: No, the society's role is strictly educational, and it does not advocate for or advise the government on nuclear energy as an option.