Uzbekistan presents integrated nuclear plant model at World Nuclear Symposium in London
Uzbekistan showcases integrated nuclear power plant model at World Nuclear Symposium in London
Uzbekistan outlined its nuclear energy development strategy, including an integrated nuclear power plant model that combines large- and small-capacity reactors, at the 51st World Nuclear Symposium in London. A delegation from the Uzatom Agency was in London on September 10–11 and took part in the symposium organized by the World Nuclear Association (WNA). Uzbekistan’s nuclear energy program was introduced during the session “New Paths to Nuclear Energy.”
The presentation centered on Uzbekistan’s integrated nuclear power plant project, which brings together large-capacity VVER-1000 power units and small-capacity RITM-200N reactors. The project is being carried out under the country’s nuclear energy development program, which is intended to expand generating capacity and reinforce energy security. During the session, attendees discussed Uzbekistan’s approach to building institutions for the nuclear sector, long-term planning, the development of regulatory and infrastructure frameworks, and the use of international expertise.
Lassina Zerbo, chairman of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Council and adviser to the president of Rwanda, cited Uzbekistan’s experience in advancing its nuclear program and emphasized the role of the Uzatom Agency as the main coordinating body for the country’s nuclear sector. In parallel with the symposium, the Uzbek delegation held a number of bilateral meetings with international organizations and companies on nuclear fuel, spent fuel management, reactor technologies, education and professional cooperation.
**Uzbekistan, Orano discuss nuclear fuel cycle**
Uzatom representatives met with French nuclear company Orano, with the talks focusing on cooperation in the nuclear fuel cycle and approaches to managing spent nuclear fuel. The two sides agreed to continue consultations in these areas. They also agreed to arrange a visit by Uzbek specialists to nuclear industry facilities in France to study relevant practices and technologies.
These talks were part of Uzbekistan’s efforts to review the technical and organizational aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle as it develops its domestic nuclear energy program. The delegation also held discussions with representatives of the World Nuclear Association and World Nuclear University.
The talks covered the possibility of Uzbekistan becoming a full member of the WNA, as well as prospects for regional cooperation and educational programs in Central Asia. Uzbekistan was listed among candidate countries being considered to host World Nuclear University events. The sides discussed the possible use of such programs for education and professional development in the nuclear sector.
The discussions also addressed wider cooperation between Uzbekistan and international nuclear organizations as the country builds the personnel and institutional capacity needed for its nuclear energy program. Reactor technologies were discussed separately in negotiations with AtkinsRealis.
The sides agreed to study the capabilities of CANDU reactor technology and evaluate the feasibility of its possible use in Uzbekistan. The talks add another reactor technology to the list being examined by Uzbekistan as it develops its nuclear energy sector. The current integrated nuclear power plant project presented at the symposium is based on a combination of VVER-1000 and RITM-200N reactors.
The Uzatom delegation also met with representatives of Rwanda’s nuclear sector during its London visit. The sides confirmed their interest in exchanging experience in nuclear energy development and discussed organizing joint introductory events. The meeting came after Zerbo’s participation in the symposium session where Uzbekistan presented its integrated nuclear power plant model.