Rosatom had prepared a preliminary feasibility study for constructing a small nuclear power plant in Kyrgyzstan as it was revealed at the end of May 2024. This development follows statements made in March 2024 by Kyrgyzstan's Deputy Energy Minister Talaibek Baigaziev at the ATOMEXPO-2024 forum in Sochi, where he announced the country's intention to sign an agreement for the construction of a small nuclear power plant and transition to green energy, CABAR.asia informed on June 4.
Baigaziev emphasized Kyrgyzstan's commitment to expanding its domestic generating capacity through renewable energy sources and the construction of a base nuclear power plant.
"We won’t be able to build it fast. Yet we are heading for research and placement of these facilities based on our network infrastructure,” he said.
The discussion about building a nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kyrgyzstan dates back to January 2022, when Rosatom signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Energy. However, the Ministry clarified that these were initial plans, with a final decision pending the results of a nationwide discussion.
Despite multiple discussions, no specific details regarding the project's timeline, investment amounts, construction terms, or the facility's location have been disclosed. Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibraev noted that while there is an intention to build the NPP, it is a 'long story.' He stressed the importance of developing hydroelectric power plants (HPPs), solar, and wind farms first, highlighting the reliability of nuclear power, which operates continuously regardless of weather conditions.
“Now we are focusing on developing HPPs, solar and wind farms. Sometimes, there is no wind, or lack of water, so we need the alternative. The nuclear power plant generates power 24/7 for 365 days a year, regardless of weather conditions. In other words, we have to think now how we will be supplied with energy in the future,” Ibraev said.
Public Opinion
Additionally, 65.9% of respondents were opposed to involving foreign specialists, fearing they would not share all risks and would leave after construction. Conversely, half of the respondents expressed trust in domestic specialists, which could increase if there were a system for regularly training specialists.
A significant portion, 88.9%, associated NPPs with hazard due to frequent reports of global NPP accidents and concerns about seismic activity and extremist threats. Opinions were divided on studying the peaceful use of nuclear energy, with 53.4% against it due to associated risks.
Over 60% supported imposing a moratorium on NPP construction, but many were open to changing their stance if awareness-raising efforts were undertaken.
Pros and Cons
Analyst Marat Musuraliev pointed out the benefits of NPPs, including the absence of hazardous emissions and their contribution to the 'green square' of energy along with HPPs, solar, and wind farms. He noted the high level of security ensured by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which imposes strict requirements on NPPs.
Musuraliev emphasized the substantial power and heat generation capabilities of NPPs, but also mentioned potential risks related to excessive heat emissions and their impact on glaciers near Bishkek. He acknowledged Rosatom's expertise and global market dominance, but pointed out Kyrgyzstan's significant dependency on Russia for petroleum, exports, and remittances, which could increase political risks and potential secondary sanctions from the West.
Independent expert Rasul Umbetaliev expressed concerns about the NPP project, advocating for the development of hydropower due to its eco-friendliness, safety, and cost-effectiveness. He raised issues regarding uranium mining, nuclear waste disposal, and seismic risks.
Ecologist Vladimir Grebnev agreed with these concerns, citing the high risks associated with NPPs despite their clean energy benefits. He stressed the need for qualified specialists and thorough public and environmental assessments before proceeding with the project.
Musuraliev suggested starting specialist training immediately and emphasized the importance of public opinion and environmental impact assessments. He also highlighted the broader applications of nuclear technology in medicine, food preservation, and geology.
Grebnev recommended selecting construction sites away from residential areas and considering cross-border waterway impacts. He concluded that while small NPPs might be feasible, larger projects may not be suitable for Kyrgyzstan.
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