Rosatom Considers Role in Kazakhstan’s Second Nuclear Power Plant as Balkhash Deal Nears
Rosatom’s Potential Involvement in Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Power Expansion
MOSCOW, May 27 (Reuters) - Russia's state nuclear corporation said it may hold talks on participating in a project to build a second nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan, Rosatom head Alexei Likhachev said on Wednesday.
Approval and Main Constructor for Second Plant
Kazakhstan has approved construction of the plant, with state-run China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) selected as the main constructor.
Awaiting Official Notification
"We have not yet been officially informed of the Kazakh side's decision regarding the second plant, either in terms of configuration or location. As soon as we receive such information officially - possibly in the next few days - we will proceed immediately to practical negotiations", Likhachev said.
Balkhash NPP: First Nuclear Power Plant Developments
Upcoming Agreements and Contracts
Likhachev added that Russia and Kazakhstan are set to sign an intergovernmental agreement and a preliminary contract covering timelines and pricing for the country's first nuclear power plant, Balkhash NPP, during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Kazakhstan starting on Wednesday.
International Collaboration and Technical Oversight
Speaking about the Balkhash project, Likhachev said Kazakhstan had held talks with companies from South Korea, China and France on possible participation, adding Rosatom had no objections.
Rosatom’s Role in Technical Design and Equipment Supply
However, the plant's technical design, specifications and supply of key heavy engineering equipment will ultimately be handled by Rosatom, he said.
Construction Timeline
Likhachev said Rosatom plans to begin active construction at the site in 2027 and expects completion in the mid-2030s.
(Reporting by Anastasia Lyrchikova. Writing by Maxim Rodionov. Editing by Kirsten Donovan and Mark Potter)
