Andrey Petrov, the First Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy of the Rosatom State Corporation – President of Atomstroyexport, paid a working visit to Uzbekistan.

According to the Uzatom Agency, key issues related to organizing the construction of small nuclear reactors (SMRs) in Uzbekistan, including nuclear fuel supply and personnel training, were addressed during the visit. An operational headquarters meeting was also convened in this regard.

Additionally, discussions were held on a project to construct a large-scale nuclear power plant, with assessments of technical and strategic aspects aimed at ensuring the sustainable development of the country’s energy infrastructure.

The primary objective of the operational headquarters meeting was to assess the current status of the small modular reactor (SMR) project, oversee the implementation of its key stages, and make strategic decisions to strengthen cooperation between Uzbekistan and Russia in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The meeting also covered issues related to supplying nuclear fuel for the SMRs. Uzbekistan, being one of the world’s leading countries in uranium mining and trade, holds significant potential for providing fuel to the future plant. Utilizing locally sourced raw materials will optimize nuclear fuel costs, thereby reducing electricity generation expenses at the SMRs and enhancing the country’s energy independence.

Additionally, the meeting agenda included personnel training. Approximately 300 students are currently enrolled at the Tashkent branch of the National Research Nuclear University (MEPhI).

Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA