Uzatom delegation discusses nuclear cooperation with Ansaldo Energia on Uzbekistan’s first NPP project

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A delegation of the Uzatom Agency, led by Director Azim Akhmedkhadzhaev, is on a working visit to Genoa, Italy, from 20 to 22 October, the Uzatom press service said.

The visit agenda includes meetings with representatives of the Liguria regional government, the Genoa city administration, the local chamber of commerce, leading technological universities, and major Italian energy companies.

On 20 October, the delegation held talks with the management of Ansaldo Energia and Ansaldo Nucleare — companies specializing in nuclear energy technologies. Ansaldo Energia is one of Europe’s leading energy engineering groups, engaged in the design, production, and supply of energy equipment, including steam and gas turbine generators.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation on the construction of Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant, including technological integration and adaptation of auxiliary systems to the country’s climatic conditions. The Italian side shared its experience in nuclear safety systems, software development for NPPs, supply of primary and auxiliary equipment, and spent nuclear fuel management, citing projects implemented in China, Belgium, Slovenia, Hungary, and Ukraine.

The sides also discussed the potential involvement of Ansaldo companies as technical consultants to oversee the NPP project implementation and to develop efficient auxiliary system solutions. Special attention was given to cooperation with Ansaldo Nucleare in radioactive waste management and the use of the company’s advanced spent fuel handling systems.

The Italian side expressed interest in providing consulting support for the development of Uzbekistan’s national regulatory and licensing framework, as well as in conducting joint research and development projects aimed at advancing nuclear technologies and training specialists for the sector in both countries.