IAEA Chief Visits Uzbekistan to Support Construction of Small Reactor Project

During his stay, Mr Grossi met with Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration, to discuss the country's expanding nuclear power programme and the role of the IAEA in supporting its implementation.

Uzbekistan has reached a significant stage in its nuclear energy ambitions with the start of construction on its first small modular reactor (SMR) project, a development highlighted during a visit by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. The visit underscored growing cooperation between Uzbekistan and the IAEA on nuclear energy development, safety standards, regulatory preparedness and healthcare initiatives.

During his stay, Mr Grossi met with Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration, to discuss the country's expanding nuclear power programme and the role of the IAEA in supporting its implementation. The discussions also covered collaboration under the IAEA's Rays of Hope initiative, which aims to improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatment in developing countries.

First Concrete Poured for Landmark Small Modular Reactor

A key moment of the visit was the first concrete pouring ceremony for Uzbekistan's small modular reactor project, an event that officially marked the beginning of construction. The ceremony was attended virtually by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the strategic importance of the project for both countries.

The SMR project is being developed by Uzbekistan's nuclear energy agency, Uzatom, in cooperation with Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom. The reactors will be based on the RITM-200N design, a technology that has attracted international attention as countries explore smaller and more flexible nuclear power solutions.

Officials view the project as an important component of Uzbekistan's long-term energy strategy. Rising electricity demand, economic growth and the need to diversify energy sources have increased interest in nuclear power as a stable and low-carbon source of electricity. The first small modular reactor is expected to begin operations around 2029. International cooperation will support fuel supply arrangements as well as the training and preparation of future plant operators.

Nuclear Expansion to Meet Future Energy Demand

Under current plans, Uzbekistan intends to build a combined fleet consisting of two small modular reactors alongside two large VVER-1000 nuclear power units. Authorities believe the mix of reactor technologies will provide greater flexibility in meeting future electricity needs while strengthening the country's long-term energy security. As construction progresses, the IAEA will continue supporting Uzbekistan through technical cooperation programmes focused on regulatory development, workforce training and the strengthening of nuclear and radiation safety systems.

Building a skilled workforce remains one of the most important aspects of the programme. The development of nuclear power infrastructure requires highly trained engineers, operators, inspectors and safety specialists, making education and capacity building a central part of the country's preparations.

The IAEA's support also includes assistance in developing regulatory frameworks designed to ensure that nuclear facilities operate safely, securely and in line with international standards. For Uzbekistan, the launch of construction marks more than the beginning of a new power project. It represents a major step toward establishing nuclear energy as a key pillar of the country's future energy mix while reinforcing international cooperation in areas ranging from energy development to healthcare and scientific advancement.