Russia-Kazakhstan Plant: First Facility Built
- Kazakhstan has selected Russia's Rosatom to be the main manufacturer for its first nuclear power plant.
- Kazakhstan, a former Soviet republic and ally of Moscow, is the world's top uranium producer, accounting for 43% of global output.
- The agency said it "will continue to work with foreign partners to form an effective international consortium." Rosatom,China National Nuclear Corporation,EDF (France),and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power were...
Rosatom takes center stage in Kazakhstan’s groundbreaking nuclear power plant project, marking a pivotal moment for the uranium-rich nation. The Russian firm will lead the international consortium, beating out competitors from France, China, and south Korea. This decision underscores important shifts in the global energy landscape, particularly focusing on Kazakhstan’s drive for energy independence and a robust international cooperation in nuclear energy, a key point in meeting domestic needs. Kazakhstan, a world leader uranium producer, faces internal electricity shortages making this project paramount. This initiative coincides with President tokayev’s strategic alliances. Read more on this and other leading stories from News Directory 3. Discover what’s next as construction unfolds.
Rosatom to Play Key Role in Kazakhstan Nuclear Plant Project
Updated June 14, 2025
Kazakhstan has selected Russia’s Rosatom to be the main manufacturer for its first nuclear power plant. The declaration, made Saturday, concludes a competition that included bids from France, China, and South Korea. The Kazakh agency for atomic energy stated that Rosatom will lead the international consortium for the plant’s construction.
Kazakhstan, a former Soviet republic and ally of Moscow, is the world’s top uranium producer, accounting for 43% of global output. It is also the third-largest supplier of natural uranium to the European Union. Despite its uranium wealth,Kazakhstan faces a significant electricity shortage for domestic use. The Kazakh agency said it would study proposals from Rosatom regarding public export funding from the Russian Federation.
The agency said it “will continue to work with foreign partners to form an effective international consortium.” Rosatom,China National Nuclear Corporation,EDF (France),and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power were among the companies considered. This project aligns with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev‘s goal of maintaining strong relationships with major global powers.
Moscow’s success in this tender comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s planned visit to Kazakhstan for a “Central-China Asia” summit. The nuclear power plant, approved in a referendum last fall, will be located near ulken, a village on the banks of Lake Balkhash. Rosatom is also involved in similar projects in neighboring Uzbekistan and has proposed one for Kyrgyzstan.
What’s next
Construction plans and timelines will be developed as Rosatom begins its role in leading the international consortium. the project is expected to considerably boost Kazakhstan’s energy independence.