Kazakhstan Commences Early Construction on its Initial Nuclear Power Station
In a significant step towards enhancing its energy infrastructure and economic growth, Kazakhstan officially began the construction of its first modern high-capacity nuclear power plant on August 8, 2025. The ceremonial start of preliminary activities took place in the village of Ulken, Zhambyl district, Almaty Region, near Lake Balkhash.
The project, which is Kazakhstan’s first large-scale nuclear power plant, involves collaboration with Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom. Rosatom has been appointed to lead an international consortium for the plant's construction, following negotiations with top global reactor manufacturers, including China National Nuclear Corporation, Électricité de France, and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power.
Engineering Surveys and Site Investigations
The construction of the high-capacity nuclear power plant officially began with initial engineering surveys and site investigations. These surveys include drilling about 50 exploratory boreholes to assess seismic stability, hydrogeological conditions, and environmental factors critical for safety. Specialists from Rosatom's engineering division have started drilling the first exploratory well and collecting soil samples.
The start of engineering surveys is a fundamental stage, as they provide a comprehensive analysis of the site's geological, seismic, hydrological, and environmental characteristics. The results of these studies will guide the final decision on the exact location of the plant.
PWR Technology and Capacity
The future plant will utilize modern generation III+ pressurized water reactors (PWRs), each with a capacity of 1,200 MW. The PWR technology meets the strictest international safety standards and is already in operation or under construction in multiple countries.
The plant is planned to have two units with a combined capacity of approximately 2.4 gigawatts. The exact location within the Ulken area will be finalized based on the results of the ongoing geological and engineering surveys.
Timeline and Significance
The construction timeline anticipates several years for completion, with operation expected around 2035-2036. This marks the beginning of Kazakhstan's strategic nuclear energy development after a 2024 referendum supporting nuclear power.
This project is viewed as a strategic move to address Kazakhstan’s energy needs and support economic development. Further plants are planned with Chinese collaboration, but this first project is focused on Rosatom’s VVER-1200 technology and detailed site suitability studies. The plant, with a planned operational lifespan of 60 years and an option to extend by 20 years, is expected to play a crucial role in Kazakhstan's energy sector for decades to come.
- The collaboration with Rosatom's state nuclear corporation involves utilizing modern generation III+ pressurized water reactors (PWRs) in the construction of Kazakhstan's first large-scale nuclear power plant.
- Following the completion of engineering surveys and site investigations, the exact location of the plant will be finalized within the Ulken area, with the first unit planned to be operational around 2035-2036.
