Connection

popular articles

Namibia: Woodside Energy could join offshore oil exploration in 2025
Iran: Petrochemical exports grow despite sanctions
United Arab Emirates and the Al Dhafra Solar Power Plant: Renewable Ambitions
Senegal: A Strategic Gas Pipeline to Monetize Resources from the GTA Project
Aramco strengthens its LNG strategy with investments in South America

Kazakhstan: Nuclear Energy Referendum Scheduled for Autumn

Kazakhstan will hold a referendum this autumn to decide whether to build a nuclear power plant, a crucial project to diversify its energy mix and reduce CO2 emissions.
Référendum énergie nucléaire Kazakhstan

Please share:

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced that a national referendum will be held this autumn to decide on the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan. This initiative aims to meet the country’s growing energy needs while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. The debate surrounding this proposal is lively, with different opinions expressed by experts and the general public alike.

Energy context and challenges

Kazakhstan has 12% of the world’s uranium resources and will produce 43% of the world’s uranium by 2022. With its wealth of natural resources, the country has significant potential for developing a nuclear industry. The construction of a nuclear power plant is seen as a solution for stabilizing energy production and supporting economic growth. Since 2018, KNPP (Kazakhstan Nuclear Power Plant) has been preparing a feasibility study to assess the need for nuclear power, select a construction site and estimate the future plant’s energy output. The results of this study will be crucial in informing voters ahead of the referendum.

Site Selection and Future Development

At the World Nuclear Spotlight event in April, Ulken, on the shores of Lake Balkhash, was identified as the most suitable site for the nuclear power plant, with Kurchatov as the back-up region. The first plant planned would be a large reactor, but the government is also considering the use of small modular reactors to replace aging coal-fired power plants. The aim is for nuclear power to represent 5% of the national energy mix by 2035. In November 2023, a mission from the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) assessed the site selection process, confirming Kazakhstan’s commitment to rigorous international standards.

International Suppliers and Outlook

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy said in January 2023 that it was considering proposals from four international nuclear technology suppliers: EDF (France), China National Nuclear Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, and Rosatom (Russia). This strategic choice is designed to ensure that the technology adopted is both safe and efficient, in line with global best practice. The introduction of nuclear power in Kazakhstan could transform the country’s energy landscape, offering a reliable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the success of this project will largely depend on public acceptance, hence the crucial importance of the forthcoming referendum.
The adoption of nuclear power represents a major step for Kazakhstan, potentially decisive for its energy future. If the referendum is successful, the country could not only strengthen its energy security, but also play a more significant role in global efforts to reduce CO2 emissions. The results of the referendum will be closely watched by players in the international energy sector.

Register free of charge for uninterrupted access.

Publicite

Latest news

Crowley and Naturgy launch LNG supply between the United States and Puerto Rico
Abastible signs a long-term renewable energy purchase agreement with Zelestra in Chile
Verdagy selects Black & Veatch for design study of its clean hydrogen project in Texas
Iraq and the United Arab Emirates submit compensation plans to OPEC+ after oil overproduction
US oil stocks increase by 1.7 million barrels, surpassing expectations

Recently published in

Kazakhstan creates a nuclear energy agency and appoints its president

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has established a new agency to oversee nuclear energy, appointing Almassadam Satkaliyev as its head. This structure aims to enhance the country’s energy security and support its long-term nuclear ambitions.
The US DOE grants $57 million loan to restart Palisades nuclear plant
The US Department of Energy allocated a $57 million loan to Holtec International to support the relaunch of the Palisades nuclear plant, which has been closed since 2022, to ensure compliance with NRC safety standards.
en_1140290954540-13
The US DOE grants $57 million loan to restart Palisades nuclear plant
The US Department of Energy allocated a $57 million loan to Holtec International to support the relaunch of the Palisades nuclear plant, which has been closed since 2022, to ensure compliance with NRC safety standards.
en_1140290954540-13
Orano and Navoiyuran sign agreement to develop South Djengeldi uranium deposit in Uzbekistan
Orano and Navoiyuran have signed a strategic agreement for the industrial development of the South Djengeldi uranium deposit in Uzbekistan, with the entry of Japanese company ITOCHU Corporation as a minority partner.
en_1140290943540-15
Orano and Navoiyuran sign agreement to develop South Djengeldi uranium deposit in Uzbekistan
Orano and Navoiyuran have signed a strategic agreement for the industrial development of the South Djengeldi uranium deposit in Uzbekistan, with the entry of Japanese company ITOCHU Corporation as a minority partner.
en_1140290943540-15
Japan begins dismantling its first nuclear reactor
Chubu Electric starts dismantling reactors at Hamaoka plant, marking a turning point in the management of its nuclear sector as Japan plans to gradually reintroduce nuclear energy into its energy mix.
en_1140290947540-13
Japan begins dismantling its first nuclear reactor
Chubu Electric starts dismantling reactors at Hamaoka plant, marking a turning point in the management of its nuclear sector as Japan plans to gradually reintroduce nuclear energy into its energy mix.
en_1140290947540-13

The French Government announces the delay of the commissioning of the EPR2 reactors to 2038

President Emmanuel Macron has announced an additional delay for the commissioning of the first EPR2 reactors, now set for 2038 instead of 2035. This decision was made during a meeting dedicated to the nuclear program.
Engie Finalizes Extension of Doel-Tihange Reactors with Belgian State
Engie has finalized a ten-year extension agreement with the Belgian state for the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 nuclear reactors, including a financial responsibility transfer related to spent fuel, following recent approval by the European Commission.
en_1140290943540-13
Engie Finalizes Extension of Doel-Tihange Reactors with Belgian State
Engie has finalized a ten-year extension agreement with the Belgian state for the Doel 4 and Tihange 3 nuclear reactors, including a financial responsibility transfer related to spent fuel, following recent approval by the European Commission.
en_1140290943540-13
Compliance of EPR2 Penly concrete: Eiffage and EDF refute allegations
Tests on the concrete of the EPR2 Penly seawall have raised doubts about its compliance with safety standards, according to Mediapart and Reporterre. EDF and Eiffage contest these claims, asserting that the material meets technical requirements.
en_1140290947540-11
Compliance of EPR2 Penly concrete: Eiffage and EDF refute allegations
Tests on the concrete of the EPR2 Penly seawall have raised doubts about its compliance with safety standards, according to Mediapart and Reporterre. EDF and Eiffage contest these claims, asserting that the material meets technical requirements.
en_1140290947540-11
Emmanuel Macron to Chair Nuclear Policy Council Focused on SMRs and Uranium Supply
On Monday, President Emmanuel Macron will chair a Nuclear Policy Council focused on small modular reactors (SMRs) and uranium supply, within a global context of renewed interest in nuclear energy.
en_1140290944540-12
Emmanuel Macron to Chair Nuclear Policy Council Focused on SMRs and Uranium Supply
On Monday, President Emmanuel Macron will chair a Nuclear Policy Council focused on small modular reactors (SMRs) and uranium supply, within a global context of renewed interest in nuclear energy.
en_1140290944540-12

Major companies pledge to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050

A group of technology and energy companies, along with 31 countries, has signed a pledge to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050, supporting a strategic expansion of this energy source.
The IAEA Director-General strengthens nuclear cooperation with Niger
Rafael Mariano Grossi, IAEA Director-General, is visiting Niger to discuss nuclear cooperation. This visit comes at a time when the country, a major uranium producer, is experiencing internal political tensions.
en_1140290951540-10
The IAEA Director-General strengthens nuclear cooperation with Niger
Rafael Mariano Grossi, IAEA Director-General, is visiting Niger to discuss nuclear cooperation. This visit comes at a time when the country, a major uranium producer, is experiencing internal political tensions.
en_1140290951540-10
HD Hyundai and TerraPower sign an agreement to structure the industrialisation of Natrium reactors
HD Hyundai and TerraPower have entered into a strategic partnership to optimise the manufacturing of Natrium reactor components. This collaboration aims to structure an industrial supply chain to accelerate their global deployment.
en_1140290951540-9
HD Hyundai and TerraPower sign an agreement to structure the industrialisation of Natrium reactors
HD Hyundai and TerraPower have entered into a strategic partnership to optimise the manufacturing of Natrium reactor components. This collaboration aims to structure an industrial supply chain to accelerate their global deployment.
en_1140290951540-9
KHNP and Samsung C&T Form Strategic Alliance for International Nuclear Projects
KHNP and Samsung C&T have signed an agreement to collaborate on international nuclear projects, aiming to strengthen their global competitiveness, particularly in the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific market.
en_1140290948540-8
KHNP and Samsung C&T Form Strategic Alliance for International Nuclear Projects
KHNP and Samsung C&T have signed an agreement to collaborate on international nuclear projects, aiming to strengthen their global competitiveness, particularly in the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific market.
en_1140290948540-8

Bangladesh: IAEA inspects Rooppur nuclear power plant ahead of commissioning

The International Atomic Energy Agency has begun an assessment visit to the Rooppur nuclear power plant, Bangladesh’s first facility, 90% financed by Russia. The inspection focuses on site safety ahead of the scheduled fuel loading in 2025.
Orano secures €400M loan from EIB for uranium enrichment plant expansion
Orano has secured a €400 million loan from the European Investment Bank to finance the expansion of its Georges Besse II uranium enrichment plant at Tricastin, aiming to increase its capacity by 30% by 2028.
en_1140290953540-7
Orano secures €400M loan from EIB for uranium enrichment plant expansion
Orano has secured a €400 million loan from the European Investment Bank to finance the expansion of its Georges Besse II uranium enrichment plant at Tricastin, aiming to increase its capacity by 30% by 2028.
en_1140290953540-7
Framatome secures NRC review for its high burnup nuclear fuel
Framatome reaches a key milestone as the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) accepts to review its report on high burnup fuels for pressurized water reactors, aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of nuclear power plants in the United States.
en_1140290946540-7
Framatome secures NRC review for its high burnup nuclear fuel
Framatome reaches a key milestone as the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) accepts to review its report on high burnup fuels for pressurized water reactors, aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of nuclear power plants in the United States.
en_1140290946540-7
Coolant leak at Olkiluoto 3 reactor in Finland
On March 7, approximately 100 cubic metres of radioactive coolant leaked into the containment rooms of the Olkiluoto 3 reactor in Finland. The incident, caused by human error during maintenance work, did not compromise nuclear safety.
en_1140290952540-7
Coolant leak at Olkiluoto 3 reactor in Finland
On March 7, approximately 100 cubic metres of radioactive coolant leaked into the containment rooms of the Olkiluoto 3 reactor in Finland. The incident, caused by human error during maintenance work, did not compromise nuclear safety.
en_1140290952540-7

Jordan bets on uranium to structure its mining industry

Jordan is developing its uranium industry with a feasibility study aimed at securing funding. A strategic partnership with a Kazakh company supports this initiative as the country seeks to exploit its resources locally.
Spain maintains its nuclear phase-out plan despite calls for extension
Spain remains committed to its strategy of shutting down nuclear power plants by 2035, despite growing pressure from economic and political actors advocating for an extension, citing energy and economic concerns.
en_1140290949540-6
Spain maintains its nuclear phase-out plan despite calls for extension
Spain remains committed to its strategy of shutting down nuclear power plants by 2035, despite growing pressure from economic and political actors advocating for an extension, citing energy and economic concerns.
en_1140290949540-6
Flamanville EPR extends shutdown until March 30 for maintenance
The Flamanville EPR nuclear reactor will remain shut down until March 30 due to a series of unexpected technical interventions. These operations, which began on February 15, aim to optimise its performance before reaching full power.
en_1140290946540-6
Flamanville EPR extends shutdown until March 30 for maintenance
The Flamanville EPR nuclear reactor will remain shut down until March 30 due to a series of unexpected technical interventions. These operations, which began on February 15, aim to optimise its performance before reaching full power.
en_1140290946540-6
The Canadian Government Supports the Development of CANDU Reactors with a $304 Million Investment
Canada announces a major investment to modernize CANDU technology, with a $304 million loan to AtkinsRéalis for the development of a large-scale nuclear reactor, thereby strengthening national energy capacity.
en_1140290947540-5
The Canadian Government Supports the Development of CANDU Reactors with a $304 Million Investment
Canada announces a major investment to modernize CANDU technology, with a $304 million loan to AtkinsRéalis for the development of a large-scale nuclear reactor, thereby strengthening national energy capacity.
en_1140290947540-5

Russia and Myanmar sign deal for construction of nuclear power plant

Russia and Myanmar have signed an agreement for the construction of a small nuclear power plant in Myanmar. The project aims to provide affordable energy for Myanmar’s economy while strengthening bilateral relations.
Eskom shuts down unit 2 at Koeberg nuclear power station in South Africa
Eskom has suspended operations at unit 2 of the Koeberg nuclear power station in South Africa following an incident during maintenance work. This decision comes amidst the country's complex energy capacity management.
en_1140290955540-2
Eskom shuts down unit 2 at Koeberg nuclear power station in South Africa
Eskom has suspended operations at unit 2 of the Koeberg nuclear power station in South Africa following an incident during maintenance work. This decision comes amidst the country's complex energy capacity management.
en_1140290955540-2
Romania invests in nuclear expansion with two new reactors at Cernavodă
Romania plans to double its nuclear capacity by building two new CANDU reactors at Cernavodă. These units, expected to be operational in 2030 and 2031, should increase nuclear energy's share to 30% of the country's total electricity production.
en_1140290948540-2
Romania invests in nuclear expansion with two new reactors at Cernavodă
Romania plans to double its nuclear capacity by building two new CANDU reactors at Cernavodă. These units, expected to be operational in 2030 and 2031, should increase nuclear energy's share to 30% of the country's total electricity production.
en_1140290948540-2
Moltex Energy unveils groundbreaking nuclear waste recycling technology
Moltex Energy has introduced an innovative nuclear waste management solution that transforms used nuclear fuel into clean energy while significantly reducing waste volumes. This technology opens up new economic and security opportunities for the industry.
en_1140290957540-2
Moltex Energy unveils groundbreaking nuclear waste recycling technology
Moltex Energy has introduced an innovative nuclear waste management solution that transforms used nuclear fuel into clean energy while significantly reducing waste volumes. This technology opens up new economic and security opportunities for the industry.
en_1140290957540-2

Advertising

LEGAL

FOSSILS

POLICY

RENEWABLE

PLUS

VERVANT

Welcome

Your subscription

Included in this subscription:

COMMUNICATE ON ENERGYNEWS