“Uzatom” Delegation Studies Experience of Novovoronezh NPP in Russia

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — As part of technical cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), employees of the Uzbek Agency “Uzatom” and the Nuclear Power Plant Construction Directorate conducted a scientific visit to the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant in the Russian Federation.

The purpose of the visit was to study Russia’s practical experience in nuclear energy development, explore Russian-designed small modular reactor (SMR) technologies, their industrial applications, design features, safety systems, and procedures for handling spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste.

Particular attention was given to the organization of personnel training and exercises at Novovoronezh NPP and the Rosatom Technical Academy.

During the six-day visit, the delegation underwent an intensive educational program, which included lectures at the Technical Academy, work on full-scale simulators, practical exercises using training and technical equipment, and laboratory work at the Training Center. Participants examined modern approaches to the design of small nuclear power plants, global trends in SMR technology development, multi-layered safety systems, passive protection principles, as well as international practices for handling radioactive waste and spent fuel.

For reference, Novovoronezh NPP, a branch of JSC “Rosenergoatom Concern,” is the first nuclear power plant in Russia to operate VVER-type reactors. It provides reliable power supply to Voronezh Region and is located on the Don River, 45 km south of Voronezh.

On the plant site, seven power units have been constructed and commissioned, four of which are currently operational. Three units serve as lead prototypes for series production of VVER-type reactors.