Asunción, Agencia IP.- The civil nuclear cooperation agreement represents an opportunity for Paraguay to strengthen its energy security and address the sector’s growing demands, according to the vision of the Government through the Radiological and Nuclear Regulatory Authority.
The Minister of the Radiological and Nuclear Regulatory Authority (ARRN), Jorge Molina, stated that the agreement signed this week in the United States is the first step toward receiving support in nuclear energy, with the aim of installing nuclear reactors for electricity generation.
He explained that the next steps following the signing include finalizing what is known as the 123 Agreement, which is required for the United States to transfer nuclear technology to Paraguay.
«It is a major step because, in these new reactor models, both SMRs and modular microreactors, the United States is the most advanced country in these technologies,» Minister Molina emphasized.
The Minister noted that the ARRN is currently working on a bill that incorporates nuclear energy as one of the options for the country’s energy supply, whether through public projects or private sector initiatives.
«Our idea is that industries that want to have access to this energy source can produce it and sell the surplus, as is proposed with solar panels,» the Minister explained during a television interview, noting that this proposal must be ratified through the approval of the bill promoted by the ARRN.
An important step toward energy diversification
When reporting on the agreement, the Vice Presidency of the Republic stated that it represents an important step toward diversifying Paraguay’s national energy matrix, strengthening energy security, and preparing the country for future challenges.
«It will allow access to technology, training, and knowledge exchange with one of the world’s leading powers in this field, while promoting scientific development and the training of Paraguayan professionals in the sector,» it added.
In the document, both parties reaffirm their commitment to international development and the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and recognize the role it can play in meeting the energy needs of both countries.
