Kazakhstan may turn to China instead of Russia to build its first nuclear power plant, after receiving a significantly cheaper offer from the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). According to Kursiv, the Chinese company proposed constructing two nuclear power units with a combined capacity of 2.4 gigawatts for $5.47bn—roughly half the estimated cost quoted by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy.
The Kazakh Ministry had previously estimated the project would cost between $10bn and $15bn. Moreover, First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar warned at the end of 2024 that rising prices for materials and services could push the costs up by 50%.
During a meeting in late May, Dong Baotong, head of China’s National Nuclear Safety Administration, and Almassadam Satkaliyev, representative of Kazakhstan’s Atomic Energy Agency, discussed the Chinese offer. CNNC also expressed willingness to share nuclear technologies and allow Kazakhstan to fully control the nuclear fuel cycle—an important aspect for the country’s energy independence.
Following the talks, Kazakh officials showed interest in learning from China’s experience in nuclear and water-ecological safety throughout all stages of the nuclear power plant (NPP) project.
Kazakhstan’s decision on the nuclear plant was supported by a national referendum held on October 6, 2024. The majority—71.12%—voted in favor, while 26.15% opposed the plan.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has confirmed the country aims to commission its first nuclear power plant by 2035. The facility is planned to be built in the village of Ulken in the Zhambyl district of Almaty region, near Lake Balkhash. Kazakhstan envisions launching at least three large nuclear power plants as part of its long-term energy strategy.
To ensure the highest safety standards and minimize corruption risks, construction will be overseen by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO).
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