President orders immediate training of nuclear power plant workers

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has ordered the immediate training of specialists who will work at Uzbekistan’s future nuclear power plant, ensuring compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safety standards. This directive was given during a meeting on February 10, where the head of state discussed developments in nuclear energy and future priorities.

To meet the country's rising energy demands, Uzbekistan is rapidly expanding its energy sector. Over the past few years, nearly 4 gigawatts of alternative energy capacity have been commissioned, raising the share of renewable energy to 16 percent. Over the next five years, the government plans to build an additional 25 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, generating 64 billion kilowatt hours of "green" electricity annually. By 2030, the goal is to ensure that 50 percent of the country’s total energy comes from renewable sources.

However, the growing demand for power—driven by digital technologies, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, and other industries—is prompting Uzbekistan to explore additional energy solutions. With 42 percent of the world’s total electricity generation now coming from alternative energy, nuclear power is emerging as a viable long-term option. Currently, 417 nuclear reactors with a total capacity of 375 gigawatts are operational worldwide, and many countries are incorporating nuclear energy into their development strategies.

"Uzbekistan, with its significant uranium reserves, is also looking to build long-term energy capacity through nuclear power. A project for the construction of small-power reactors has already been developed, and an international conference on nuclear energy was held in Samarkand on December 5, 2024, to discuss its implementation," the report states.

During the meeting, officials reported on progress in nuclear energy development. The President emphasized the importance of training nuclear specialists and ensuring safety at the highest international standards. He noted that such advanced technologies will enhance Uzbekistan's economic competitiveness and provide a strong foundation for long-term growth.

It should be recalled that a protocol was previously signed between the State Enterprise “Directorate for the Construction of Nuclear Power Plants” under the Uzatom Agency and Atomstroyexport JSC (ASE JSC), the engineering division of Russia’s Rosatom State Corporation, marking the start of work on the construction of Uzbekistan’s small-power nuclear plant.