Uzbekistan Launches Construction of First Nuclear Power Plant in Collaboration with Russia

Today, a key stage in the implementation of the project for the country's first nuclear power plant has started in Uzbekistan. At the solemn ceremony in Tashkent and at the site in the Farish district of the Jizzakh region, strategic documents were signed and the first concrete works were started. The "UAtom" agency and "Rosatom" concluded a roadmap for long-term cooperation, covering personnel training, the creation of the infrastructure of an atomic city, and informing the public about nuclear technologies.

Approximately 900 cubic meters of concrete mix have already been poured at the site for the foundation of the first small-capacity power unit with a RITM-200N reactor. The project includes two large-capacity units based on VVER-1000 generation 3+ and two small-capacity units of 55 MW each. After reaching full capacity, the nuclear power plant will generate 15–17 billion kWh per year, covering more than 15% of the country's electricity needs.

Construction is proceeding on schedule under the personal supervision of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in compliance with strict IAEA standards. Permission has been obtained to use the site, and an expert review has confirmed its safety: there are no active faults or zones of increased seismicity. The project combines basic units for stable load and small units for flexible peak coverage, is designed for 60 years of operation, and creates a new basis for Uzbekistan's energy independence.