As demand for energy grows, so too is interest in civilian nuclear energy, including among Southeast Asian countries. The first of this three-part Big Read series across three Saturdays in October takes a look at the state of play in the region. Look out for the next two instalments on safety and technological advancements, and alternative sources of clean energy.

Southeast Asia's only nuclear power plant lies around 70km west of the Philippine capital Manila. But since its completion in 1985, it has never been powered up.