Uzbekistan’s Small Nuclear Power Plant Project Ahead of Schedule

Uzbekistan's small modular nuclear power plant (SMR) project is progressing faster than expected, with the first concrete pouring planned for Q2 2026, according to Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, head of the Uzatom agency, Orda reports, citing Gazeta.uz.

Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized that the SMR is a high-tech international project under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) oversight.

This isn’t like building a poultry farm — every stage is closely monitored,he said.

The plant will use a Russian VVER-based design, part of a 2018 bilateral agreement. Construction is led by Rosatom’s Atomstroyexport, with contributions from Uzbek companies. French and Chinese turbine and control technologies are under consideration, and the IAEA will provide safety assessments at every stage.

Akhmedkhadjaev added that the project benefits from strong international cooperation and won’t be affected by geopolitical tensions or sanctions.

Nuclear energy and space are above politics,he said. 

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has called the project “vital” for the country’s future.

The plant, expected to come online between 2029 and 2033, will be owned and operated by Uzbekistan. The total cost is under $2 billion, with funding anticipated from international investors and Chinese soft loans — not from Russian sources.