Kazakhstan to start building its first nuclear power plant in 2027 and is choosing a site for the third

Kazakhstan intends to begin construction of its first nuclear power plant in 2027 and is considering several sites for a third NPP. Almasadam Satkaliyev, chairman of the Atomic Energy Agency, said this on November 13 at the World Atomic Week conference in Antalya (Turkey).

Speaking at the plenary session "Atomic Energy for People and the Planet," Satkaliyev set out plans to expand nuclear generation, develop its own fuel production and create strategic uranium reserves.

Preparations for the first NPP moved forward after the signing of an intergovernmental agreement with Russia and an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract with Rosatom. Negotiations on the technical annexes to the contract are continuing.

"We objectively understand that in 2027 Rosatom, together with Kazakh partners and domestic enterprises, could begin construction provided that all the requirements of Kazakhstan's legislation are met," Satkaliyev told journalists.

Negotiations on the second NPP are continuing, with geological and engineering surveys under way in parallel. Satkaliyev noted that it is still too early to name implementation timelines.

Several locations are being considered for the third plant: Kurchatov in East Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea coast in the west, and northern areas along the Tobol River. The northern site was proposed by grid operator KEGOC. The choice will depend on regional demand for electricity, geological and hydrological conditions, and access to water for cooling. Medium-power reactors, according to Satkaliyev, can provide not only electricity but also heat, and in some cases support water desalination. The first two plants are preliminarily planned for the Zhambyl district of the Almaty region.

Kazakhstan intends to supply future NPPs with fuel of its own production. The country has received a license from France's Framatome to produce fuel for French-design reactors; the current volume is purchased by Chinese partners; expansion of production with Russian and Chinese partners is under discussion.

There are also plans to create a multi-level strategic uranium reserve to ensure domestic supplies for at least 100 years. Kazakhstan ranks second in the world in uranium reserves and accounts for about 40% of global production. "Uranium is not only an export commodity but also a strategic resource," Satkaliyev said, stressing its importance for the development of the country's own energy sector and economy.