The construction project for a small nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan is progressing ahead of schedule, according to Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, Director of the Atomic Energy Agency ("Uzatom"), in an interview with Alter Ego, as reported by Gazeta.uz.
Responding to criticism that Uzbekistan may struggle to implement complex infrastructure projects, Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized that building a nuclear power plant is incomparable to other types of projects.
"To dispel some doubts—some say we can't even build a dam, yet we're planning a nuclear power plant. But these are completely different things. Why? Because this process involves numerous parties. It's not just about building a poultry farm—this is a high-tech nuclear facility, with every stage of construction monitored at various levels by different organizations. The key authority in this process is the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)," he explained.
According to Akhmedkhadjaev, the IAEA plays a crucial role in supervising the project, ensuring that all construction phases meet international safety standards.
"That’s why we are joining various safety and standards conventions. We want the IAEA to come at every stage, conduct inspections, and provide their conclusions. It's not about just building the plant with Rosatom and saying, 'Here, use it.' No, the plant will only operate after receiving the IAEA’s positive assessment," he added.
International Cooperation and Project Progress
Akhmedkhadjaev highlighted that the project is advancing successfully due to close collaboration with international partners.
"The level of cooperation we have now is rarely seen. Our partners are willing to make adjustments, even prioritizing our project over other nuclear plant developments worldwide. This reflects a certain level of trust in Uzbekistan, recognizing that building this plant here will yield great benefits. After all, Uzbekistan has its own academics, physicists, and nuclear scientists," he noted.
Currently, key research and feasibility studies have been completed, and design and budget documentation is ready. Construction of the assembly base is nearly finished. The main construction phase of the plant is scheduled to begin in Q2 of 2026, when the "first concrete" will be poured.
Use of French and Chinese Technologies
Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized that specialists from various countries are involved in the project. French automated control systems and turbines, as well as Chinese nuclear technologies, are being considered.
"We’re not trying to create a 'mix' of technologies. We are choosing the best components for this nuclear power plant. That’s why both European and Chinese companies will participate. For instance, one of the best automated control systems (ACS) for nuclear plants is French. Over 70% of France’s electricity comes from nuclear power. We are considering using French ACS for our plant. Moreover, the French have no issue with this being a Russian-built plant," he explained.
Additionally, French and Chinese turbines for power generation are being considered.
"China's turbines are a great option—they are based on European technology. At Turkey's Akkuyu NPP, which is being built by Rosatom, French Arabelle turbines from Alstom are used. These international partnerships are mutually beneficial, and I see no sanctions-related issues here," Akhmedkhadjaev stressed.
Impact of Sanctions on Russia
When asked whether international sanctions against Russia could affect the NPP project, Akhmedkhadjaev stated that geopolitical instability will not impact the plant’s development.
"I’ve considered this, given the current global situation. In my view, two fields remain outside of politics—space and nuclear energy. In space programs, Russians and Americans still work together. In nuclear energy, everyone collaborates. Our project will, in essence, be an international endeavor," he concluded.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 24, 2025