Why is this important
Uzbekistan is actively developing the nuclear industry, striving for technological independence and energy diversification. Interest in small modular reactors and mobile nuclear power plants reflects the strategic course towards using advanced and flexible solutions in energy supply.
What happened
- The Uzbekistan Atomic Energy Agency held talks with the Kurchatov Institute National Research Center.
- The parties discussed the development of competencies and the implementation of advanced nuclear technologies in Uzbekistan.
- One of the key areas of cooperation was the assessment of the capabilities of small modular reactors and mobile nuclear power plants.
- Following the meeting, agreements on scientific and technical cooperation were signed.
Numbers and facts
The following are identified as priority areas for cooperation:
- small nuclear power plants and mobile nuclear power plants;
- nuclear medicine and the production of radioisotopes;
- use of synchrotron radiation and neutron sources;
- plasma physics, thermonuclear fusion, high-energy physics;
- natural and “green” technologies;
- new materials and additive technologies for the atomic industry;
- creation of joint laboratories and centers, training of personnel and academic mobility;
- research on unique scientific installations.
The head of Uzatom emphasized access to unique infrastructure and global expertise, while the NIC president pointed to the possibilities of joint technological breakthroughs in the peaceful atom.
Context
- The partnership will allow Uzbekistan to accelerate the training of specialists and expand access to modern nuclear technologies.
- In the future, this may lead to the launch of own small nuclear power plants and mobile energy installations. The transfer of scientific competencies will play an important role, which will strengthen the country’s sovereign capabilities in the nuclear sphere.
- The cooperation is also aimed at strengthening the national scientific school.
