28 Nov 2024 22:06

European Commission to allocate 12.9 mln euros in financial aid to Armenia for enhancing nuclear safety

YEREVAN. Nov 28 (Interfax) - Armenia will receive 12.9 million euros in financial assistance from the European Commission for measures to enhance nuclear safety, with the decision to sign a financial agreement with the commission approved at a government meeting on Thursday, the government's press service said.

Under the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Armenia and the EU, the country's nuclear safety regulatory committee will work on harmonizing the nuclear and radiation safety regulatory infrastructure as well as the infrastructure for radioactive waste management.

Armenia has developed a roadmap to ensure the timely and full implementation of CEPA's outlined measures, and the committee has begun drafting new legislation in line with relevant EU directives.

The CEPA, signed between Armenia and the European Union in 2017, covers a broad range of energy cooperation issues, including aspects of nuclear safety. One of the key provisions is the development of a strategy for the gradual transition from the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), the only nuclear plant in the South Caucasus, to alternative energy solutions.

The Metsamor NPP provides around one-third of Armenia's total energy needs. Its operational lifespan has been extended until 2036, after which it is scheduled for decommissioning. Currently, the plant's operations rely on Russia's Rosatom state corporation for both fuel supply and technological upgrades. The plant operates a single power unit with a first-generation VVER-440 reactor. Fuel is supplied by TVEL.

In early August, the Armenian government established a state company to oversee the construction of a new nuclear power unit. Within the next two years, this company is expected to present a plan for NPP construction, including selecting a technology supplier and determining capacity. Armenian officials have previously indicated their intent to explore options for cooperation with China, Russia, South Korea and the U.S.