The construction of Uzbekistan's first nuclear power plant in the Jizzakh Region is poised to become a key factor in achieving the republic's energy independence. According to a report by Deputy Presidential Advisor Rakhim Khakimov, prepared for the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Russia, the commissioning of the facility will allow for annual savings of approximately 3.6 billion cubic meters of natural gas.
This large-scale project, implemented in partnership with the state corporation Rosatom, is designed to cover up to 15% of domestic electricity demand. This will significantly diversify the country's energy balance, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and cutting carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.
Currently, preparatory work is actively underway at the site in the Farish District. Specialists are preparing the infrastructure necessary to transition to the critical construction phase—the pouring of "first concrete." The project is unique in that Uzbekistan became the first country to sign an export contract for the construction of a low-capacity nuclear power plant based on a Russian design.
According to an additional agreement signed in 2025, the energy complex will be combined. It will include two high-capacity power units based on VVER-1000 generation "3+" reactors and two small power units with RITM-200N reactors, each with a capacity of 55 MW. This approach will ensure flexibility of the energy system and stable supply for both industrial giants and remote settlements.
It is worth noting that Russia and Uzbekistan are also implementing a comprehensive cooperation program in the field of peaceful nuclear energy. In May 2024, the parties signed a contract for the construction of a low-capacity nuclear power plant with reactors in the Jizzakh Region. This project became the world's first export contract for the construction of a low-capacity nuclear power plant. Simultaneously, the possibility of constructing high-capacity power units of Russian design in the country is being explored.
Furthermore, JSC "TVEL" and the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan are cooperating in the supply of nuclear fuel for a research reactor. Since 2019, a branch of the National Research Nuclear University "MEPhI" has been operating in Tashkent, training specialists for the nuclear industry.
Source: podrobno.uz