KazAtomExpo international exhibition dedicated to nuclear technology and nuclear power took place in Astana on Aug. 27-28, as Kazakhstan explores alternative forms of clean energy in pursuit of energy security and carbon neutrality goals.
The dual pressures of the energy crisis and the pursuit of net-zero emissions have sparked discussions on the benefits of nuclear power generation along with safety concerns surrounding nuclear power plants.
According to Kazakh Energy Minister Almassadam Satkaliyev, the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan is the only way to meet rising domestic power demand and carbon-neutrality goals.
“At the moment, we are discussing the construction of only one station. But look at the vast size of Kazakhstan. If we are serious about carbon neutrality in the next 40 years, that is, if we really aim for zero emissions by 2060, there is no alternative to nuclear power,” said Satkaliyev.
The ministry forecasts that by 2035, electricity consumption in Kazakhstan will grow to 152.4 billion kilowatt-hour. At the same time, the output of existing energy sources will decrease to less than 135 billion kilowatt-hour. Therefore, in the next 10 years, Kazakhstan needs to commission new energy generating facilities with a total capacity of 26.5 gigawatts.
The main share of electricity generation today is produced by coal-fired plants, which account for 66% of total energy generation. The renewable energy sector shows growth, with the number of facilities reaching 148, which accounts for around 6%.
“In Kazakhstan, two sites have already been identified as absolutely suitable for the construction of nuclear power plants. That is the Balkhash site and the Kurchatov site. They are unique sites and can be utilized,” said Satkaliyev.
Kazakhstan, the world leader in uranium production and second in reserves, is preparing to decide on the construction of nuclear power through a national referendum. On Aug. 27, the government approved the draft resolution to hold a referendum on the matter, which will take place this autumn.
Earlier, the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS) released the findings of its poll that showed that a slight majority of respondents (53.1%) support building a nuclear power plant, hoping it will help resolve electricity shortages by 2030.