Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 22 November, Tashkent hosted a conference titled "Nuclear Horizons: Deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Integrated Energy Systems," supported by the New Nuclear Watch Institute (NNWI).

The conference aimed to address key challenges faced by the region’s countries and foster collaboration to enhance energy resilience.

Leaders of nuclear energy organizations from Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan participated in the event. Opening remarks were delivered by Tim Yeo, Head of NNWI, and Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, Director of Uzbekistan’s Agency for Atomic Energy (UzAtom).

Panel sessions featured presentations by representatives from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy, Uzbekistan’s Energy Market Development and Regulation Agency, Rosatom Central Asia, Kazakhstan Nuclear Power Plants, the Nuclear Industry Development Association, the Energy Supply Organizations Association, the Institute of Atomic Energy, the Union of Power Engineers of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan’s National Energy Association, and Global ESG Partnership.

Tim Yeo emphasized the inspiration he draws from the progress being made in the region. "This is a pivotal moment for decisions on nuclear energy. Countries like Uzbekistan are playing a key role in transitioning to clean energy, making it safer, more sustainable, and accessible to all citizens," he stated.

Azim Akhmedkhadjaev highlighted the multifaceted significance of SMRs for Uzbekistan. "First, they contribute to energy security. Second, they align with Uzbekistan’s international commitments to reduce carbon emissions. Lastly, the success of this project impacts the country’s economic and social development," he noted.

Uzbekistan’s "2019–2029 Nuclear Development Plan" includes plans to construct new nuclear power plants equipped with six SMRs. A contract signed with Russia outlines the construction of nuclear power stations using SMR technology, underscoring Uzbekistan’s growing role in regional nuclear energy development.

Kazakhstan, a major global uranium producer, also plans to build a nuclear power plant. Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy representative, Gulmira Mursalova, presented developments in the country’s nuclear energy sector. She noted that 71.12% of participants in a recent referendum supported the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan. By 2035, the country plans to introduce 26.5 GW of new generation capacity. Kazakhstan has also joined the International Declaration to triple global nuclear energy production by 2050.

Aidar Kazabayev, Chairman of the Board at Global ESG Partnership, delivered a keynote address highlighting the global energy transition. "The shift away from fossil fuels and the move toward a low-carbon economy demand reliable solutions. SMRs offer compactness, low emissions, and adaptability to local conditions," he stated.

Ruslan Nuralin, a representative of Rosatom Central Asia, emphasized the dual benefits of nuclear energy: combating climate change and ensuring energy security through a stable, long-term source of power. "Rosatom has extensive experience in nuclear energy projects worldwide. We are ready to share our approaches to nuclear education and infrastructure development to support Central Asia’s nuclear energy growth," he added.

The panel discussions also covered the integration of SMRs into energy grids. Regional scientists shared insights into current energy system operations and future perspectives, stressing the importance of collaboration among Central Asian countries to ensure the stability of the regional energy system. Marat Dulkairov, Director General of the Union of Power Engineers of Kazakhstan, underscored the relevance of intergovernmental cooperation in the region.

Participants also examined the development of infrastructure needed to support a stable and sustainable energy system. Asuan Siyabekov, a representative of Kazakhstan Nuclear Power Plants, highlighted the creation of a carbon-free energy complex as a long-term infrastructure project that aligns with Kazakhstan’s Green Economy Transition Concept.

The conference concluded with discussions on the role of nuclear energy in achieving global climate goals.