Public Hearings Held on the Project of the First Nuclear Power Plant in Uzbekistan
2025-12-25 17:00:00 / News
During the hearings, primary attention was given to the key aspects of the project. In particular, it was noted that nuclear energy can become a reliable foundation for Uzbekistan’s energy independence, the transition to a low-carbon economy, and the improvement of the population’s quality of life.
Participants were also presented with detailed information on the project’s technical solutions. For the first time in global practice, it is planned to locate two large-capacity VVER-1000 power units and two small-capacity RITM-200N power units at a single site, with a total installed capacity of about 2,100 MW. This combined configuration will make it possible to generate approximately 15 billion kWh of environmentally clean electricity per year.
Special attention was paid to safety issues. Experts provided detailed explanations of the application of modern passive safety systems, the principles of “defense-in-depth,” as well as measures to ensure the safety of both large and small power units, including scenarios involving a complete shutdown of the plant. A comprehensive environmental impact assessment, taking into account all components of the environment, confirmed that the project fully complies with the strictest international IAEA standards and the requirements of national legislation.
Issues of medical, sanitary, and hygienic support were also addressed. During the hearings, information was presented on the radiation monitoring system, medical surveillance of personnel and the population, as well as measures to protect human health at all stages of the plant’s construction and operation.
During the discussion, members of the public received detailed answers to questions concerning guarantees of radiation safety, the impact of the project on water resources and agriculture, the creation of new jobs, the development of social and transport infrastructure in the area, and compensation measures for local residents.
As a result of the hearings, a protocol was approved reflecting all proposals and comments expressed by the participants.