The Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almassadam Satkaliyev, believes it is necessary to prepare at least three sites for the construction of new nuclear power plants (NPPs) in the country in order to ensure a reliable and expandable energy supply in the future, Kazinform News Agency reports.
“The discussion is not yet focused on planning, but rather on the capacity and efficiency of the power system in meeting future energy demands. The necessity for a baseload capacity is evident. Coal is facing significant limitations in terms of utilization on a global scale, with gas employed primarily as a transitional fuel. That is why there are few viable alternatives,” Satkaliyev stated.
The minister emphasized that nuclear power is widely recognized as the most promising source of energy for meeting global energy demands.
He identified several potential locations in Kazakhstan that could support the construction of NPPs.
“In terms of large and small capacity stations, the Balkhash site is worthy of mention. Additionally, there is the Kurchatov site, as well as the site where a medium-capacity plant previously operated in western Kazakhstan. In order to guarantee the reliability of energy supply and facilitate future growth, it is essential to consider at least three potential locations for the construction of nuclear power plants. This will require support from the public at the upcoming referendum,” Satkaliev noted.
Earlier, Almassadam Satkaliyev said that four gas processing plants are scheduled to be constructed between 2026 and 2030.
Source: Kazinform