Russia plans to simultaneously build two nuclear power plants in Uzbekistan. This was announced by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov at a reception at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Russia, dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Uzbekistan's independence.
According to him, this project is the first event of its kind in Central Asia in the field of nuclear energy. As Ryabkov noted, “In Uzbekistan, the construction of two nuclear power plants under the Russian project is being considered: one large, one small. This is the first project of its kind in Central Asia.”
Currently, the Russian and Uzbek sides are conducting negotiations on the technical and financial aspects of the project, as well as on the phased implementation of construction works. The goal is to optimally ensure the capacity and technological capabilities of each plant, as well as to maximize the level of localization.
For reference, the head of Rosatom, Alexey Likhachyov, stated in an interview with journalists at the end of April that under the construction of the small nuclear power plant, concrete pouring is expected within a year. He also noted that the company has prepared proposals for the construction of the large NPP, including financial models, organizational issues, and options for maximum use of local production.
The small NPP is Rosatom's first export project abroad in Uzbekistan. According to the project, the two states reached an agreement last spring, and in autumn a protocol was signed to start developing technical documentation and project works.
According to the initial plans, each plant should consist of six reactors with a capacity of 55 MW. Construction is planned to begin this summer, and the plants will be gradually commissioned between 2029 and 2033.
Furthermore, as previously stated by the head of Rosatom, project financing will be the responsibility of the Uzbek side, and a Russian credit is not currently considered. According to Ryabkov, the successful implementation of the NPP will create new technological achievements and significant opportunities for Uzbekistan in the energy sector.
This project will strengthen not only the country's energy system but also Uzbekistan's investment and technological image on the international stage. The construction of NPPs of this type for the first time in Central Asia opens a new chapter in the history of the region's nuclear energy.
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