Nuclear power plants have been considered an important economic project in Kazakhstan since the 1990s to ensure the region's energy self-sufficiency.
Since gaining independence, the construction of a nuclear power plant has become particularly necessary in the context of energy sovereignty and national security, serving as a key component of Kazakhstan’s overall security and a guarantee of the country’s future confident development.
The modern technologies planned for use in the construction of the NPPs comply with the highest global safety standards, as evidenced by international experience in operating such plants and the absence of significant risks.
The construction of a nuclear power plant on the shores of Lake Balkhash will help prevent energy shortages in several regions, reduce dependence on imports, and stabilise electricity prices. Moreover, this project plays a key role in achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, aligning with Kazakhstan’s international commitments.
The site selection for construction was driven by the energy deficit in the southern regions of the country, with the location near Lake Balkhash being considered since Soviet times.
In autumn 2023, IAEA experts once again confirmed that there are no factors preventing the construction of a nuclear power plant near Lake Balkhash. The construction process will also be monitored by international organisations such as the IAEA and WANO, ensuring high safety standards and minimising corruption risks.
The choice of contractor for the construction of the NPP will be based on economic feasibility, technological reliability, and environmental safety. This will contribute to the development of the national nuclear energy sector, create jobs, and improve infrastructure in the region. Reactor technology suppliers under consideration include China (CNNC), Russia (Rosatom), South Korea (KHNP), France (EDF), and the USA (GE-Hitachi and NuScale). However, due to the Kazakh authorities’ intention to use a proven reactor, the US offer was declined.
Radioactive waste will be safely stored at specially equipped sites. Kazakhstan has historically managed without nuclear energy thanks to large coal reserves. However, increasing consumption, ageing power plants, environmental problems, deteriorating health of people living in nearby areas, international restrictions on coal and gas, and the instability of renewable energy sources necessitate the introduction of new solutions.
The experience of other countries shows that relying solely on renewable energy (solar and wind) reduces industrial growth.
In addition, Kazakhstan has scientific institutes and highly qualified specialists, along with active training of personnel for NPP operations at universities and enterprises.
Currently, personnel training for the nuclear sector in Kazakhstan is conducted at Kazakh universities through five educational and two dual-degree programmes (Nuclear Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Physics and Atomic Energy, Theoretical Nuclear Physics). Kazakhstan is also developing a scientific and educational base with foreign partners, with several agreements signed with France, Russia, and Hungary.
According to global practice, the construction of a nuclear power plant with two units can provide jobs for up to 8,000 people, while the operational phase will require about 2,000 personnel with higher and specialised education. Nuclear professionals will account for about 20% of the total workforce.
Nuclear energy is seen as a unique base source of "green" energy.
Given global trends and the example of neighbouring countries such as Uzbekistan, the construction of an NPP is becoming essential for Kazakhstan to avoid dependency and lagging in energy and technological development.
Moreover, "green" nuclear energy will enable our businesses to confidently enter global markets without fear of heavy fines for using "dirty" energy, significantly enhancing the competitiveness of our industrial potential.
The construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan will establish a strong foundation for the country’s energy security, improve the environmental situation by reducing emissions, stabilise electricity prices, and represent an important step towards technological advancement and industrial growth.