Kazakhstan recruits Russia and China for construction of initial nuclear power plants since Soviet Union time frame.
Kazakhstan's Leap into Nuclear Energy
Kazakhstan, a prominent uranium producer, is embracing nuclear energy once more, steering away from its coal-dependent power sources and hydropower, with a growing focus on renewables. The country's move towards nuclear power is a strategic response to future energy demands and an effort to reduce reliance on heavy coal consumption.
After a national referendum in October 2024, 70% of Kazakh voters agreed to construct nuclear power facilities, a decision backed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. This decision marks the country's return to nuclear energy following the shutdown of its Soviet-era reactor in 1999 and the absence of nuclear power facilities since then.
Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear firm, and China's National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) will take the reins of separate consortiums to build Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plants. These plants will feature cutting-edge VVER-1200 Generation 3+ reactors, set to significantly improve domestic power supply and create numerous job opportunities during construction and operation.
Kazakhstan's approach to building nuclear power plants is rooted in balancing international partnerships. The country has invited multiple foreign partners to participate in its nuclear program, aiming to maintain strong relationships with its former Soviet patron (Russia) and its ambitious eastern neighbor (China).
While Rosatom will head the consortium for the first power plant, CNNC stands poised to lead a separate project for a second plant, subject to a separate agreement. The second plant's specifics, such as site, reactor design, and timeline, remain unclear for now, but the inclusion of CNNC signals Kazakhstan's commitment to engaging both Russia and China in its energy ambitions.
The nuclear projects underline Kazakhstan's delicate geopolitical dance. The country's decision to involve both Moscow and Beijing aligns with its broader strategy of maintaining robust ties with its ex-Soviet patron and its powerful neighbor, while at the same time ensuring technological and financial support diversity.
Nuclear Power PlantRussiaKazakhstanChinaSoviet UnionEnergy Security
Sources1. Kazakhstan paves the way for its first nuclear power station2. Kazakhstan's First-Ever Nuclear Power Station to be Built by Russian State Nuclear Energy Company3. Kazakhstan seeks deeper nuclear cooperation with China4. Kazakhstan Nuclear Energy: Will Tengiz Chevroil's Interest Draw Another Player?5. Kazakhstan to sign nuclear cooperation deal with China – president
Kazakhstan's decision to construct nuclear power facilities is a strategic move in its energy sector, leveraging partnerships with Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear firm, and China's National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). This collaboration in the finance and energy industries will significantly enhance Kazakhstan's power supply and stimulate job creation during the construction and operation of the nuclear power plants.