Selection of technology for new nuclear power unit to be finalized by the end of 2027, according to Pashinyan

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARКА/. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the initiation of a construction program for a new nuclear power unit in Armenia while presenting the Civil Contract party's election platform.

"The selection of technology for the new nuclear power unit is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027, at which point a final decision will be made. At the very least, a memorandum of intent must be signed to outline the parties involved in the construction of the nuclear power plant and the methods to be employed," he stated during a live broadcast on his social media.

The prime minister also mentioned that a program aimed at extending the operational life of Unit 2 of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant until 2036 will be put into action.

"The work on this program has commenced, and it will be carried through to its logical conclusion," Pashinyan remarked.

The Armenian Nuclear Power Plant stands as the sole nuclear facility in the South Caucasus region. It is situated near Metsamor, roughly 30 km west of Yerevan. This plant is a crucial source of electricity for the country, contributing up to 40% of its total energy generation.

The operational lifespan of the current power unit has been extended until 2026, with efforts underway to prolong it for an additional decade.

Armenian officials are planning to construct a new nuclear power plant within the next 8-10 years. They are currently evaluating various options and leveraging the expertise of partners from the United States, France, China, Russia, and South Korea.-0-