Uzbekistan’s Atomic Energy Agency Director, Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to nuclear energy, dismissing concerns over potential foreign control of its upcoming nuclear power plant (NPP). In an interview with Alter Ego, he emphasized that the NPP is crucial for Uzbekistan’s energy security and independence.
Akhmedkhadjaev stressed that without nuclear energy, Uzbekistan would remain dependent on imported coal and gas, harming both the economy and the environment.
"Why continue importing expensive coal and gas when we can build power stations that make electricity cheaper and ensure our energy independence?" he said.
Addressing concerns about Russia's involvement, Akhmedkhadjaev clarified that while Rosatom will be the general contractor, the NPP will be entirely owned and operated by Uzbekistan.
"The nuclear island will be Russian, as this technology is the most reliable. However, the automated control system and turbine equipment will be sourced from European and Chinese manufacturers," he explained.
Rejecting speculation that Uzbekistan could be under Moscow’s control, he added,
"It’s not like Russia has some button they can press to control the plant. We are building it, we own it, and we decide how it operates. This is a transparent and open process."
Uzbekistan is exploring nuclear technologies from the U.S., Korea, and other countries, with a focus on small modular reactors (SMRs). Akhmedkhadjaev stated that while no reference low-power nuclear plants exist yet, Uzbekistan plans to engage in U.S. programs and train specialists in their technologies.
Uzbekistan is also developing local nuclear expertise through the Tashkent branch of Russia’s Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPI), which has been training specialists since 2019. Akhmedkhadjaev praised the students' enthusiasm, reaffirming the country's commitment to this path.
On May 27, Uzbekistan signed an agreement with Rosatom’s engineering division, Atomstroyexport, during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Tashkent. The project, endorsed by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, will utilize RITM-200N pressurized water reactors, adapted from nuclear icebreakers. The plant is expected to be commissioned in stages from 2029 to 2033.
Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamahmudov has also hinted at the possibility of a larger nuclear power plant by 2040. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan is forming an international consortium to support nuclear energy development, with discussions held with French firms Assystem, Bureau Veritas, and Framatome.
As Uzbekistan advances its nuclear ambitions, Akhmedkhadjaev reiterated that the project is not a geopolitical tool but a strategic step toward energy independence. "This is not a machine that can be turned off remotely. It’s an investment in our future," he concluded.
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