Construction of nuclear power plant to be anchor project in Kazakhstan–Russia energy cooperation – TokayevPresident of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has described the construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant (NPP) as an anchor project in Kazakhstan–Russia energy cooperation.In his article titled Eternal Friendship Is a Guiding Star for Our Peoples, published Tuesday in Rossiyskaya Gazeta ahead of his state visit to Moscow, Tokayev noted that the energy sector occupies a special place in bilateral cooperation."Through joint efforts, we ensure the uninterrupted transit of Russian energy resources to China and the countries of Central Asia. We are building and modernizing major energy facilities. So, the construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant with the participation of an international consortium led by Rosatom will undoubtedly become an anchor project," Tokayev wrote."The construction of the nuclear power plant will enable our country to complete the full nuclear fuel cycle – from uranium mining to electricity generation. In addition, the project will open new prospects for technology transfer, training of specialists, job creation, and the development of related industries, including mechanical engineering and instrument making," the president said.In 2024, Kazakh citizens approved the construction of the nuclear power plant in a nationwide referendum.Rosatom will build Kazakhstan’s first NPP. The Russian company signed a roadmap with Kazakhstan for the construction of two VVER-1200 reactors. The NPP construction is expected to take approximately 11 years and could be completed by 2035-2036. Kazakhstan is mulling over export financing from Russia for the project.Up to 10,000 workers will be employed during the construction phase, and about 2,000 during operation. Kazakhstan’s Atomic Energy Agency plans to hold a competition to choose a name for the plant by mid-October.On August 8 of this year, near the village of Ulken in the Almaty region, specialists from Rosatom’s Engineering Division began drilling the first exploratory well and collecting soil samples at the site of Kazakhstan’s future first nuclear power plant. Engineering surveys and data analysis are expected to take approximately 18 months. At least 50 test wells, ranging from 30 to 120 meters deep, will be drilled during the exploration stage. The surveys will determine the final location for the planned facility. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX