Azim Akhmedkhadjaev and Andrey Petrov. Photo: UzAtom’s press service
Representatives from Uzbekistan’s UzAtom and Russia’s Rosatom met in Tashkent on March 24–25 to discuss the prospects for constructing both small- and large-scale nuclear power plants in Uzbekistan, according to UzAtom’s press service.
The Russian delegation was led by Andrey Petrov, First Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy at Rosatom and President of Atomstroyexport. The Uzbek side was represented by Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, Director of UzAtom.
The discussions covered various aspects of building a large-capacity nuclear power plant, including site selection, feasibility studies, and strategic considerations for sustainable energy infrastructure development.
However, the primary focus was on key issues related to the construction of a small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan. The talks emphasized project design, nuclear fuel supply logistics, and personnel training.
The SMR project is currently in the design phase, with necessary engineering surveys and expert evaluations underway. The two sides are holding regular consultations to coordinate technical requirements and schedules. Environmental monitoring—including seismic activity assessments—is ongoing at the designated site to ensure the plant’s safety and reliability. There is also consideration of involving international companies from Asia and Europe that offer advanced automation and unique technological solutions.
Uzbekistan, one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of natural uranium, has significant potential to supply fuel for future nuclear power plants. Utilizing domestic uranium resources is expected to optimize fuel costs, reducing the price of nuclear-generated electricity and enhancing the country’s energy independence.
As for workforce development, 300 students are currently enrolled at the Tashkent branch of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI. In collaboration with Rosatom, an internship program is being developed for Uzbek specialists at operating nuclear power plants, alongside plans to establish a training center with simulators.
UzAtom signed a contract with Rosatom on May 27, 2024, for the design, supply, and construction of a small modular reactor nuclear power plant. This agreement was concluded during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to Tashkent. As part of the deal, the two sides signed a protocol amending the bilateral cooperation agreement on nuclear power plant construction, originally approved on September 7, 2018.
The first SMR plant is set to be built near Lake Tuzkan in the Farish district of Jizzakh region. It will feature six reactors, each with a capacity of 55 MW, for a total output of 330 MW. The reactors will be installed on a single site, adhering to nuclear safety and energy standards. The foundation is scheduled to be poured in the second quarter of 2026, with the first reactor expected to be operational by 2029.
