ST. PETERSBURG (Realist English). Russian President Vladimir Putin and Uzbek leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev took part in a ceremony marking the start of construction of the first power unit of an integrated nuclear power plant in the Jizzakh region.
The event was held via videoconference with the participation of IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, as well as representatives of Rosatom and Uzatom. The pouring of “first concrete” into the reactor foundation moved the project into the practical phase.
NPP of Large and Small Capacity on One Site
The nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan has no analogues in the world. By decision of President Mirziyoyev, two large-capacity power units (VVER-1000 reactors, Generation III+) and two small RITM-200N reactors (55 MW each) will be built on the same site. This integrated scheme will make it possible to use power generation as efficiently as possible.
After full commissioning, the plant will produce about 17 billion kWh of electricity per year, covering up to 15% of Uzbekistan’s energy consumption. This will be a significant contribution to the energy security of the republic and the whole of Central Asia.
Russian Technologies and Personnel Training
Rosatom is the general contractor, applying the most modern engineering solutions while complying with all IAEA safety standards. Russia will provide Uzbekistan with a preferential export credit, long-term fuel supply, maintenance services and spent nuclear fuel management. Thus, with Moscow’s assistance, a national nuclear industry is being formed in the republic.
Uzbekistan has already built a personnel base: about 400 Uzbek citizens are studying nuclear specialties at Russian universities, and more than 300 are studying at the Tashkent branch of MEPhI, Rosatom’s flagship university.
Construction Progress and Employment
Work on the site began in October 2025 (excavation of the pit). In March 2026, work began on the concrete foundation of the reactor building. All preparatory stages have now been completed, and a license for the construction of the power unit has been obtained from the Uzbek Committee on Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety.
About 15,000 people are expected to be employed at the construction site, including local contractors, material suppliers and transport workers.
“A Vivid Example of Alliance”
Vladimir Putin, addressing the ceremony participants, stressed that the implementation of this flagship high-tech project serves as proof of the successful development of Russian-Uzbek strategic partnership, which is mutually beneficial and contributes to the prosperity of the peoples of both countries.
“Rosatom, as a recognized global leader in peaceful nuclear energy, intends to use the most modern technologies and engineering solutions. All strict IAEA safety standards and environmental requirements will be taken into account,” the Russian president said.
Mirziyoyev: “A Historic Event”
Shavkat Mirziyoyev called the start of NPP construction a historic event, opening a new stage of technological, industrial and scientific development for Uzbekistan.
“The foundations are being laid in Uzbekistan for the development of a new sphere for us – modern nuclear energy, an industry that is a symbol of high scientific potential, advanced engineering competencies and a strategic vision of the future,” the Uzbek leader stated.
He particularly noted that safety is an absolute priority and that the construction of the plant is proceeding under the constant supervision of the IAEA.
Grossi: “Will Become an Example of a Responsible Approach”
IAEA Director General Grossi, who participated in the ceremony, highly appreciated the uniqueness of the integrated format, combining small modular reactors and conventional units. He confirmed that the agency will accompany the project at all stages, respecting the principles of safety, physical protection and non-proliferation.
“This project will contribute to the development of the digital economy, data processing centres and other opportunities,” Grossi noted.
Start of Concrete Pouring
Andrey Petrov, First Deputy Director General of Rosatom, reported that the small-capacity unit was ready for the “first concrete” pour and received permission from Putin.
Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, Director of Uzatom, requested similar permission from Mirziyoyev. After receiving the presidents’ approval, the ceremony ended with the symbolic start of construction work.
