Russia to build nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan

Interfax news agency quoted Denis Manturov, First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, as saying that the country is building a small nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan.

Mr. Manturov said that work on the construction of the nuclear power plant has begun and its first units will be operational by 2029.

He stressed that Russia is ready to enter into talks on the construction of a larger power plant in Uzbekistan.

“The construction of a small-capacity nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan by Russian companies is undoubtedly one of the most important strategic projects in bilateral cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan,” said Mr. Manturov.
This is the world’s first export contract for the construction of a small-capacity nuclear power plant guaranteed by Rosatom. Overall, we are satisfied with the progress of the project.”

“I understand that it is important for our Uzbek colleagues to launch the first unit before the end of 2029,” the Russian deputy prime minister said, stressing that Russian organizations have already begun work on the design and development of the Uzbek site.
Accordingly, our companies are making every effort to start actual construction next year.”

Based on the report, Mr. Manturov said of the prospect of building a full-scale nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan with Russian participation that 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.”

“If Uzbekistan decides to implement this project, we are certainly ready to provide our expertise,” he added.