Armenia in talks with five countries over construction of new nuclear power plant

(Horizon Media / NEW YORK) — Armenia is holding discussions with five countries over the construction of a new nuclear power plant as the government considers options for replacing the country’s existing Soviet-era facility.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Armenia is currently negotiating with the United States, Russia, China, France and South Korea and is examining proposals before deciding which option to pursue.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Concordia Annual Summit in New York, held alongside the UN General Assembly, Pashinyan said the operational lifespan of Armenia’s existing nuclear power plant is approaching its long-term limit and that the government is working toward a decision on its successor.

Armenia’s nuclear power plant, located near Metsamor about 30 kilometres west of Yerevan, is the only operating nuclear facility in the South Caucasus and remains a major component of the country’s electricity supply.

The plant’s operational lifespan has previously been extended, while Armenian authorities are working on plans that would allow it to remain in service for another decade as preparations continue for a replacement facility.

The government has been examining different reactor technologies and possible capacities for the future plant. Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom has already prepared a preliminary feasibility study for a possible 1,200-megawatt unit, while Armenian officials have also explored potential cooperation with other international partners.

Pashinyan said Armenia is seeking the proposal it considers most suitable before moving ahead with construction of the new facility.