As part of the large-scale project to construct Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant, the Uzatom Agency is studying the successful experience of the Republic of Belarus.

On the instructions of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a delegation from the agency paid a working visit to Belarus to familiarize itself with advanced practices in the construction and operation of nuclear power plants.

On August 5, representatives of Uzatom held a meeting with the Minister of Energy of the Republic of Belarus Denis Moroz. During the negotiations, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of nuclear energy. Particular attention was given to the integration of the nuclear power plant into the national energy system, physical protection of facilities, spent nuclear fuel processing, radioactive waste management, and engagement with the public.

The Uzbek side provided information on the progress of preparations for the construction of the nuclear power plant. The Belarusian side, in turn, shared its experience in developing the necessary infrastructure, building a temporary workers’ camp, and localizing production.

As noted by Azim Akhmedkhodjayev, Director of the Uzatom Agency, Belarus is considered one of Uzbekistan’s key partners in the introduction of nuclear energy. According to him, the experience of Belarus, having successfully established cooperation with industrial enterprises, localized supply chains, and ensured the participation of local companies in the project, is of particular importance. Its application will contribute to the development of the industrial base required for the advancement of nuclear energy in Uzbekistan.

Minister of Energy of the Republic of Belarus Denis Moroz stated that in 2023, the country commissioned its first nuclear power plant with a capacity of 2,400 megawatts. Currently, around 40 percent of all electricity consumed in Belarus is generated at this plant. The companies involved in the construction of the plant are now actively participating in international projects of the Rosatom State Corporation. According to the Minister, Belarusian companies may also be able to take part in the construction of the nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan in the future.

As part of the visit, the Uzbekistan delegation became acquainted with the operations of the central control panel of the dispatching service of the State Production Association Belenergo, which oversees the centralized, round-the-clock management of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution processes throughout Belarus.

According to the Uzatom Agency, the program also includes visits to the Belarusian Nuclear Power Plant and its training center, as well as bilateral negotiations and working consultations.

Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA