Energy Transition in Myanmar: Exploring Renewable and Nuclear Options

Myanmar faces a critical energy transition driven by rising electricity demand, limited rural electrification, and global climate commitments. This paper examines the country's renewable and nuclear energy prospects by modeling three development scenarios through 2030-Base Case, Pessimistic, and Optimistic-based on policy implementation and investment levels. Scenario results indicate that available generation capacity could range from 4.5 GW (-37%) in a worst-case scenario to over 8 GW in an accelerated transition. The share of renewables in electricity generation (including hydropower) could vary from under 50% to more than 60%, depending on project realization. While solar and hydro offer near-term potential, limited grid capacity and underinvestment pose persistent risks. Nuclear power, currently in early planning stages, could provide strategic baseload capacity in the 2030s if regulatory and institutional readiness is achieved. The study concludes with eight targeted policy recommendations, highlighting the need for updated national planning, diversified investment, and parallel development of renewable and nuclear pathways to ensure energy security and climate alignment. And also, a practical recommendation for increasing the reliability of the power system using a frequency-dependent device.