The Nuclear Power Plant project in Uzbekistan will enhance the resilience of the energy system

Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjayev, in his address, drew attention to the ongoing work on developing nuclear energy, including the construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant, and to the cooperation between the parties in this area.

“Uzbekistan has long been regarded as one of the world’s leading uranium producers. The country accounts for approximately 4 percent of global reserves, with annual production exceeding 3,500 tons of this radioactive metal.

The country holds a strong position among major producers and remains a reliable partner in the global nuclear fuel cycle. Such significant industrial expertise forms the foundation for a new stage in the sector’s development.

Currently, under the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan is moving toward establishing its own nuclear power generation capabilities. This is a multifaceted undertaking. The site will feature two large reactors (each with a capacity of 1,000 MW) and two smaller reactors (each with a capacity of 55 MW).

This approach will simultaneously provide 2.1 GW of baseline generation capacity along with flexible power output.

By 2035, the plant, which will occupy an area of 525 hectares, is expected to generate more than 15 billion kWh of electricity annually. This project will form part of the national strategy for diversifying the energy sector.

By 2030, the share of clean energy in Uzbekistan is projected to exceed 40 percent, with the nuclear power plant contributing to achieving this target. At the same time, projects in renewable energy are also being implemented.

The combination of large and small units at a single site will enhance the sector’s resilience and facilitate integration. The large units will provide baseload generation, while the smaller ones will compensate for peak loads and balance the intermittent output of solar and wind power plants.

The nuclear power plant will function not only as a source of green energy, but also as a system-forming facility.

A key priority is personnel training. This system will encompass education from school through higher and postgraduate studies. The branch of MEPhI is considered the country’s leading educational institution in this field, and by 2030, it is expected to have trained more than 300 specialists. 

The construction of the nuclear power plant in Jizzakh region is not only an additional source of generation, but also a driver of the region’s long-term industrialization. During the construction phase, more than 12,000 jobs will be created, and once the plant becomes operational, over 2,000 qualified specialists will be employed. 

This project will attract significant investment to the region and serve as a catalyst for infrastructure development. We are open to international cooperation. The IAEA has expressed its approval and pledged its support.

The nuclear power plant will become a symbol of Uzbekistan’s new industrialization, a driving force in the modernization of the energy sector, and a solid foundation for cooperation between our countries”, Mr. Khodjayev said.