During the Government session chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, General Director of Kazakhstan Atomic Power Plants JSC Timur Zhantikin told about the stage at which the organisation of work on the construction of nuclear power plants, El.kz cites primeminister.kz.
In connection with the task set to achieve carbon neutrality by 2026 and the projected shortage of electricity, the Head of State instructed to study the possibility of developing safe and environmentally friendly nuclear energy in the country.
"The issue of NPP construction in Kazakhstan has been considered since the 90s. Now, in the conditions of energy deficit and high wear and tear of existing capacities, it has become relevant again. It should also be noted here that nuclear power plants are among the safest and most reliable sources of energy in the world," the head of Kazakhstan Atomic Power Plants noted.
As a result of research, specialists have determined the necessary capacity of up to 2.8 GW, the place for its construction in Ulken village of Almaty region, as well as the technology for the nuclear power plant. Generation III and III+ water-water reactors were chosen as the most suitable. Such reactors have multiple redundant both active and passive safety systems. They constitute the so-called defence in depth. The probability of an emergency at modern reactors is extremely low. Even so, the safety systems neutralise its possible consequences.
"As far as environmental impact is concerned, nuclear power is the most environmentally friendly source of energy, even compared to RES. At the same time, nuclear power is included in the green taxonomy in many developed countries. The development of nuclear power contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, which is in line with global trends in environmental responsibility," Zhantikin said
It was noted that 13 NPP projects from 6 companies from Russia, China, South Korea, France and the USA were submitted for consideration. Based on the world experience and IAEA recommendations, the Kazakhstani side developed its own evaluation system. Later it was approved by the well-known French engineering company Assystem.
As a result, out of all proposed options, 4 potential suppliers were included in the short-list: Chinese company CNNC with HPR1000 reactor, Korean KHNP with APR1000 and APR1400 reactors, Russian Rosatom with VVER-1200 and French EDF with EPR1200 technology. An idea of the approximate cost of the project, its construction time, as well as methods and sources of financing has been formed.
"In case of a favourable decision on the referendum results, the next important task will be to select a specific nuclear technology supplier and jointly develop a feasibility study for the project. The objective reality is that the future of Kazakhstan is inextricably linked to nuclear power," Zhantikin said.