MINEM: Peru ranks 2nd in nuclear energy in Latin America after revamping the RP-10 reactor

The Minister of Energy and Mines, Luis Bravo, along with the president of the Peruvian Institute of Nuclear Energy (IPEN), Rolando Páucar, participated in the commissioning of the power increase of the RP-10 nuclear reactor, a milestone that represents a strategic advancement for the country in science, technology, and health, and consolidates it as a regional benchmark in nuclear development.

With this advancement, Peru positions itself among the top 2 leading countries in Latin America in the nuclear field, expanding its scientific, technological, and productive capabilities, and granting greater prominence to nuclear energy in the national energy matrix, demonstrating that it is a peaceful, safe, and strategic tool at the service of the country.

During the event, the head of the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) highlighted that the repowering of the reactor from 4 to 10 MW will allow for the diversification of radiopharmaceutical production for cancer diagnosis and treatment, strengthen healthcare, and expand scientific research capabilities, with direct benefits to the health, hope, and quality of life of millions of Peruvians.

The RP-10 nuclear reactor, located at the Huarangal Nuclear Center, is a strategic facility for the country, primarily intended for the production of medical radioisotopes, neutron activation analysis, and the provision of specialized neutron irradiation services with high added value for sectors such as health, industry, mining, and security.

Thanks to maintenance, modernization, and technological upgrade work, Peru is now capable of operating the reactor at higher power levels, which will allow for the production of new radiopharmaceuticals such as Lutetium-177. This is fundamental for treating prostate and endocrine cancers, thereby strengthening national health sovereignty.

This achievement has been developed entirely by Peruvian professionals from IPEN, reflecting technical excellence, leadership, and institutional commitment. The event was also attended by IPEN's first female operator engineer, Yaela Beraun, highlighting the role of women in highly specialized and strategic sectors for the country.

Minister Bravo hailed this important advancement, which reaffirms the State's commitment to innovation, indicating that this milestone lays the foundation for consolidating the development of nuclear energy. “This increase in the nuclear reactor's power is the result of a serious and sustained public policy that bets on technology with a positive impact on the lives and health of Peruvians,” he maintained.