Russian and American Models Among Proposals for Armenia’s New Nuclear Power Plant
During a year-end press conference, Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure David Khudatyan stated that various proposals are being considered for the construction of a new nuclear power plant in Armenia, these proposals take into account financial and economic factors as well as the timeframe required for commissioning the plant.
The minister noted that proposals from Russian and American models, among others, are being reviewed, but no final decision has been made yet.
Khutdatyan noted that for overseeing the project, the government plans to establish a dedicated agency. It will handle the thorough evaluation of bids, determine the final plant model, supervise construction, and prepare the technical specifications.
On August 1, 2024, the government decided to create the “New Nuclear Energy Unit Construction” closed joint-stock company to manage the program. Former Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Gnel Sanosyan had previously stated that the company would be established based on the guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), operate under the ministry’s supervision, and be funded by the state budget.
Sanosyan also noted that the organization would act as the client and supervisory body for the construction process and would ultimately serve as the operator of the new nuclear power unit.
With 12 years remaining in the extended operational lifespan of the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant’s existing unit, it currently generates about one-third of Armenia’s electricity. During the summer, Secretary of the Security Council Armen Grigoryan mentioned that Armenia is negotiating with the United States, Russia, and South Korea regarding the construction of a new nuclear power plant. He added that Armenia is in the phase of substantive discussions with the United States on the matter.