GE Vernova Eyes South-east Asia for SMR Nuclear Expansion
The energy firm is exploring small modular reactor deployments in Singapore and the Philippines to meet growing carbon-free power needs.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Nuclear
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GE Vernova has identified Singapore and the Philippines as key potential markets for its BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology. The expansion effort follows a partnership agreement with Hitachi to explore commercial deployment opportunities across South-east Asia.
Why it matters
SMRs provide a scalable, carbon-free energy source that can be integrated into existing grids to offset regional gas capacity shortfalls. By utilizing factory-manufactured components, the company aims to bypass traditional construction hurdles and long supply chain lead times.
GE Vernova expects to reach 20 gigawatts of gas turbine output by the end of 2026, scaling to 30 gigawatts by 2030, despite current five-year delivery lead times. Meanwhile, four BWRX-300 units are under construction in Canada.
The players
GE Vernova
This American energy company provides power generation equipment and is a joint venture partner in the development of the BWRX-300 reactor.
Hitachi
The Japanese multinational conglomerate collaborates with GE Vernova on nuclear energy research and the commercialization of small modular reactor technology.
Ontario Power Generation
This Canadian crown corporation is the operator currently leading the construction of the first BWRX-300 units.
Eric Gray
He serves as the CEO of GE Vernova and is a primary spokesperson for the company's regional energy strategies.
The details
SMRs utilize factory-based manufacturing to ensure repeatability and reduce dependence on regional labor expertise while requiring smaller physical footprints than traditional plants. These reactors offer a critical alternative for power generation in regions where gas-fired capacity may fall short of projections by 2030.
Timeline
March 2026: GE Vernova and Hitachi signed a commercial deployment agreement.
October 26, 2026: CEO Eric Gray discussed SMR potential at SIEW.
End of 2026: GE Vernova targets 20 GW of annual gas turbine output.
2028: GE Vernova targets 24 GW of annual gas turbine output.
2030: GE Vernova targets 30 GW of annual gas turbine output.
The Big Picture
The introduction of modular nuclear technology marks a shift in how the Asean Power Grid incorporates baseload energy to stabilize regional electricity demands. This transition challenges the long-standing reliance on traditional gas-fired capacity that currently faces significant delivery delays.
Future widespread adoption of SMR technology could lead to more resilient power grids and reduced volatility in electricity pricing for commercial and residential consumers. Unlike traditional plants, these compact units offer potential solutions for energy-dense areas with limited space for large-scale infrastructure.
The takeaway
Small modular reactors represent a shift toward factory-produced energy infrastructure that could mitigate long-term supply chain constraints. Investors and regional planners should track the performance of ongoing construction projects in Canada as a benchmark for future feasibility.
Further reading
For more information on the evolution of power generation, visit our Nuclear section.
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