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Economy 11/22/2024 Head of Uzatom: Nuclear energy will provide a multiplier effect for the economy of Uzbekistan
The event was organized by the Central Asian branch of the New Nuclear Watch Institute (NNWI).
In his speech, Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized that the energy sector is in the process of profound transformation. Global challenges such as climate change and ensuring sustainable energy supply require comprehensive solutions, among which nuclear energy plays a key role due to its safety, efficiency and environmental friendliness. For Uzbekistan, the development of nuclear energy is becoming a strategically important area that can significantly accelerate economic growth.
The head of Uzatom noted that nuclear energy opens up new prospects for the modernization of the country's energy infrastructure.
According to him, one of the priorities is the introduction of small modular reactors (SMR), which combine innovative technologies and the ability to integrate into the local energy system. This will create integrated energy systems that combine nuclear, renewable and traditional energy, which in turn will ensure reliable energy supply, reduce the carbon footprint and meet modern environmental standards. The implementation of SMR in Uzbekistan also creates conditions for strengthening the regional energy sector, he emphasized.
Akhmedkhadjaev drew attention to the fact that natural gas is used to generate 80% of electricity in Uzbekistan. Redirecting part of this gas to the gas chemical industry will preserve natural resources and produce products with high added value, which will be a significant step in the development of the gas chemical sector, he noted.
The project attaches particular importance to energy security and reducing dependence on carbon energy sources. The introduction of nuclear power plants will contribute to the creation of new jobs and stimulate the development of various sectors of the economy.
An important aspect is also the development of educational programs for training qualified specialists in the field of nuclear energy. Since 2018, initiatives in this area have been actively developing in Uzbekistan, including the creation of the Tashkent branch of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, which will become a scientific and educational center for countries interested in the use of small reactors, said Azim Akhmedkhadjaev.
Recall that in May 2024, Uzbekistan and Russia signed an agreement on the construction of a small-capacity nuclear power plant according to the Russian project in the Jizzakh region. The launch of the first unit of the SNPP in Uzbekistan is planned for the end of 2029.
The station with a capacity of 330 MW will be equipped with up to six RITM-200N reactors with an electric capacity of 55 MW each.
The project is being implemented with the participation of Rosatom as the general contractor, as well as with the involvement of local companies.
RITM-200N is an advanced Russian development based on the adaptation of nuclear fleet technologies for land-based use. The service life of the reactors is up to 60 years, and their efficiency and reliability have been confirmed by operation on nuclear icebreakers in the Arctic.
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