Kazakhstan plans to build at least three nuclear power plants by 2050: the first constructed by Russia, the second and third by China.
The Kazakh Atomic Energy Agency stated that the country intends to have at least three nuclear power plants operational by 2050, with the first project already underway.
This nuclear energy development strategy aims to ensure energy security, support sustainable economic growth, fulfill international climate commitments, promote high-tech industrial development, and strengthen Kazakhstan's position in the global nuclear energy sector.
The agency said: "According to this strategy, by 2050, the Republic of Kazakhstan will have at least three nuclear power plants in operation. The first nuclear power plant project is already under implementation, construction of the second is under consideration, and feasibility studies are being conducted for the third using small modular reactor (SMR) technology."
In addition to nuclear power plant construction, the strategy outlines rational utilization of uranium resources, localization of equipment and nuclear fuel production, and enhancement of national industrial capabilities.
The strategy particularly emphasizes advancing the development of nuclear science and applied technologies, establishing a modern technological infrastructure, and creating a qualified talent cultivation system.
The document also outlines measures for the safe management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel to minimize environmental risks. Plans include introducing digital solutions and ensuring high levels of information security for nuclear facilities.
The agency stated: "The implementation of this strategy will enable Kazakhstan to establish a modern, sustainable nuclear energy cluster and integrate it into the global nuclear energy ecosystem."
The Kazakhstan Nuclear Power Plant Company will establish a center for nuclear power plant construction capabilities. This center will serve as a project office, general contractor, and holder of state equity in future nuclear power plants.
In the long term, Kazakhstan plans to establish a dedicated nuclear energy holding company to consolidate projects and operational entities in this field.
Experts estimate that constructing one nuclear power plant could require up to 10,000 workers, including over 3,000 technical specialists.
"To this end, we are actively updating technical and vocational education curricula," the agency said. "We place particular emphasis on training professionals such as turbine operators, electricians, nuclear power plant equipment installers, and technicians responsible for plant operations and safety."
In addition, we are developing bachelor’s degree programs in nuclear energy applications and introducing new specializations, such as reactor equipment operators.
The first nuclear power plant will use Generation III+ reactors, which offer higher reliability and modernized safety systems—including passive protection mechanisms that can operate without human intervention or external power supply.
According to the agency, the project integrates international experience, including lessons learned from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in Japan, and includes measures to prevent radioactive material release even during severe emergencies.
Construction contracts for the second and third nuclear power plants have been awarded to China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), while the first plant will be built by Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation (Rosatom).
The site for the first nuclear power plant is located in Ulyken village, near Lake Balkhash, about 400 kilometers northwest of Almaty. The government has approved the Jambyl District in Almaty Region, adjacent to the first plant site, as the location for the second nuclear power plant.
Source: Central Asia Times
Author: Dmitry Pokidayev
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862999814511616/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.