Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Russia have discussed plans to establish joint ventures and localise production for the construction of an integrated nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan, with a target of sourcing at least 30% of project products domestically, the Uzatom Agency said.
The issues were discussed at an industry conference in Tashkent attended by representatives of Uzatom, relevant government agencies, Uzbek companies, specialists from Rosatom's Engineering Division, the Association of Construction Organisations of the Nuclear Industry and executives from Russian companies involved in nuclear power plant construction.
Opening the conference, Shakhzod Alirizaev, deputy head of Uzatom, highlighted the importance of practical cooperation in implementing the project, which is intended to become the world's first integrated nuclear power plant. The design combines large-capacity power units equipped with VVER-1000 reactors and smaller units using RITM-200N reactors.
Alirizaev said this configuration creates opportunities to combine expertise and establish a domestic manufacturing base in Uzbekistan.
During the first session, participants examined modern nuclear power plant construction methods, including a system-by-system approach and modular assembly. They also discussed the role of leading materials science organisations and equipment manufacturers in providing technological solutions for nuclear projects.
Other topics included backup power supply systems, auxiliary heat and power systems, and components needed to improve the efficiency and safety of construction work.
A substantial part of the conference focused on localising production and establishing joint ventures. Russian and Uzbek companies exchanged experience in automated control and radiation monitoring systems, specialised ventilation and gas purification, polymer pipeline manufacturing, energy-efficient insulation materials, specialised concrete chemicals and prefabricated structures for construction sites.
Establishing manufacturing facilities in Uzbekistan is being considered as a way to increase the share of locally produced goods used in the project and build an industrial base for the further development of nuclear energy. Cooperation is also expected to involve specialist training and the development of related industries.
The final business-to-business session took the form of a cooperation exchange, where Russian and Uzbek companies presented proposals and discussed opportunities to deepen their partnerships, including joint manufacturing and professional training.
“The implementation of the integrated nuclear power plant project is not simply the construction of an energy facility, but a strategic opportunity for Uzbekistan to establish its own high-tech industrial base, adopt leading international practices and train a new generation of specialists. Joint ventures with Russian partners will be a key instrument in achieving these goals and strengthening bilateral cooperation,” Alirizaev said.
The conference forms part of Uzbekistan's broader efforts to develop its energy sector and industry. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has previously highlighted the importance of nuclear energy for the country's technological, industrial and scientific development.
The project sets a target of increasing the share of domestic products to at least 30%. A dedicated industrial zone is also planned in Farish district to supply the plant's construction with locally manufactured materials and equipment.
The integrated nuclear power plant project in Jizzakh region envisages greater participation by domestic companies in production chains. The establishment of joint ventures is intended to strengthen national industrial capabilities, expand cooperation between manufacturers and train personnel for the nuclear sector.
