Russia begins site preparation for SNPP in Uzbekistan, ready to offer solutions for full-scale NPP - Russian first deputy PM
TASHKENT. April 28 (Interfax) - Russia has begun preparatory work at the site of a small nuclear power plant (SNPP) in Uzbekistan to ensure the first units are operational by 2029, and is also prepared to discuss construction of a full-scale NPP in the country, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov told Interfax.
"The construction of a low-capacity NPP in Uzbekistan by Russian enterprises is undoubtedly one of the most important strategic projects in bilateral cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan. This is the world's first export contract for building a low-capacity nuclear plant, secured by Rosatom. Overall, we are satisfied with the project's progress. Russian organizations have already begun developing design documentation, and preparatory work has started at the site selected by our Uzbek partners," Manturov said during his visit to Tashkent for the Innoprom. Central Asia exhibition.
"I understand it's important for our Uzbek colleagues to commission the first unit before the end of 2029. Accordingly, our companies are making every effort to begin actual construction next year," he said.
Commenting on prospects for building a full-scale NPP in Uzbekistan with Russian participation, Manturov said such a project would be "equally important and necessary" for Uzbekistan's energy sector, as it "would ensure a stable energy supply for the country's growing economy."
"Should Uzbekistan decide to implement this project, we are certainly prepared to offer our expertise," he said.
As previously reported, in May 2024 JSC Atomstroyexport (Rosatom's engineering division) and the NPP Construction Department under the Uzbek government signed a contract to build an SNPP. The project involves constructing a 330 MW Russian-design low-capacity plant (six 55 MW reactors) in the Jizzakh region. Construction was scheduled to begin this summer, with phased commissioning planned for 2029-2033.
