Construction Work Begins on Nuclear Power Plant in Kazakhstan

Category: ENERGY AGENDA , NUCLEAR ENERGY - Date: August 11, 2025

Initial construction work has begun on the planned nuclear power plant (NPP) construction project in the village of Ülken, in the Jambyl district of Almaty, Kazakhstan. These studies include engineering surveys aimed at identifying the most suitable site for the future high-capacity NPP and preparing design documentation. The work began with the participation of Rosatom General Director Alexei Likhachev, Director of the Atomic Energy Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almasadam Satkaliyev, and Almaty Region Governor Marat Sultangaziyev.

As part of the project, experts from Rosatom's Engineering Department conducted the first exploratory drilling and collected soil samples. These studies will assess the seismic stability, hydrogeological characteristics, and other parameters of the region, which are crucial for the safety of the nuclear power plant. At least 50 wells will be drilled during this phase, each ranging from 30 to 120 meters deep. The final decision on the plant's location will be made based on the survey results.

The commencement of engineering studies is a fundamental step in determining the safety, reliability, and economic efficiency of the nuclear power plant project. This phase will include a comprehensive study of the geological, seismic, hydrological, and environmental characteristics of the site. These studies will ensure that the project complies with both international and national standards, minimizes environmental and technological risks, and provides a foundation for the efficient design of future nuclear power plants.

Rosatom Director General Alexei Likhachev stated, "The launch of engineering research in Kazakhstan marks the beginning of the journey toward the first high-capacity nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan's modern history. At this stage, we are focusing on a comprehensive site survey to fully ensure its suitability for a future nuclear power plant. Rosatom is ready to utilize all its experience to implement this strategically important project for Kazakhstan's development."

Almasadam Satkaliyev, head of the Atomic Energy Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan , said, “Today's step is only the first, but it demonstrates Kazakhstan's commitment to establishing a new high-tech sector in its national economy. We are confident that this nuclear power plant will provide strong support for the region's development, from the creation of modern infrastructure to new schools, kindergartens, and social facilities. This project is Kazakhstan's strategic choice and a driver of long-term regional and national economic growth.”

At the ceremony, employees of the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant, Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, Belarus Nuclear Power Plant, Paks-2 Nuclear Power Plant in Hungary, and Ruppur Nuclear Power Plant in Bangladesh, where VVER-1200 units are currently operating or under construction, addressed residents of Ülken village, wishing the project success and emphasizing the importance of nuclear energy for the socio-economic development of the region.

The NPP to be built in Kazakhstan will feature modern 3rd-generation VVER-1200 reactors, pressurized water reactors with a capacity of 1200 MW. This technology meets the most stringent international safety standards and is already successfully used in facilities operating and under construction in Russia, Belarus, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, and China. The reactor has a service life of 60 years and can potentially be extended by another 20 years.

Published by: Alperen ERTAŞ- [email protected]