On August 8, 2025, the first work on the NPP construction project began in Ulken village (Zhambyl district, Almaty region, Kazakhstan) – engineering surveys to select the optimal site and prepare design documentation for the construction of a high-capacity nuclear power plant. The event was attended by Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom State Corporation, Almasadam Satkaliev, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as representatives of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI.
Specialists from Rosatom's Engineering Division have started drilling the first exploration well and taking soil samples. These studies will make it possible to assess the seismic stability, hydrogeological features and other parameters of the territory, which is a prerequisite for ensuring the reliability and safety of the future station. In total, at least 50 wells will be drilled as part of this stage of exploration, with a depth of 30 to 120 meters. In the future, based on the data obtained, a decision will be made on the exact location of the NPP.
The beginning of engineering surveys is a fundamental stage on which the safety, reliability and economic efficiency of a nuclear power plant project depend. It is during these works that a comprehensive study of the geological, seismic, hydrological and environmental characteristics of the territory is carried out, on the basis of which a final decision on the location of the station will be made. Conducting surveys ensures that the project complies with international and national standards, minimizes environmental and man-made risks, and creates the basis for effective design of a future nuclear power plant.
"The start of engineering surveys in Ulken is the beginning of the path to the first large–capacity nuclear power plant in the modern history of Kazakhstan. At this stage, we are focusing our efforts on a thorough study of the site in order to be absolutely sure of its suitability for a future nuclear power plant. Rosatom is ready to apply all the accumulated experience to the implementation of this project, which is strategically important for the development of Kazakhstan," said Alexey Likhachev, CEO of Rosatom State Corporation.
Almasadam Satkaliyev, in his address to local residents and guests of the ceremony, also stressed: "Today is only the first step, but it defines Kazakhstan's path to the formation of a new high–tech industry in the country's economy. We are confident that the construction of the nuclear power plant will give a powerful impetus to the development of the region, from the creation of modern infrastructure to the appearance of new schools, kindergartens and social facilities. This project is a strategic choice of Kazakhstan, a driver of long–term economic growth of the region and the country as a whole."
The future plant is based on modern VVER–1200 reactors (a water-to-water power reactor with an electric capacity of 1200 MW) of generation III+. This technology meets the strictest international safety requirements and has already been successfully used at existing and under construction facilities in Russia, Belarus, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt and China. The reactor's service life is 60 years, with the possibility of extending it for another 20 years.
During the ceremony, the importance of the role of MEPhI in the development of Kazakhstan's nuclear program was noted. In particular, Almasadam Satkaliyev noted the importance of the participation of students of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI and the Almaty branch in the implementation of such initiatives. Alexey Likhachev also stressed the importance of training young specialists, emphasizing that the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI is a flagship university of the industry, represented not only in Russia, but also in Kazakhstan through the Almaty branch, which is actively involved in training personnel for nuclear energy.
Alina Begimova, a student at the IATE National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, also took part in the launch ceremony for the construction of the first nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan earlier, which underlines the active involvement of young people in the key development processes of the country's nuclear industry.
From the National Research Nuclear University “MEPhI”, the event was attended by Nurzhan Nurakhov, Advisor to the Rector of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, as well as employees and students of the Kazakh branch of the university.
During the event, students spoke about the importance of developing nuclear energy in Kazakhstan, the need to ensure nuclear safety and expressed their desire to become part of the future of the industry, contributing to the sustainable energy development of the country.
We remind you that in June 2025, Rosatom was designated the leader of the international consortium for the construction of nuclear power plants in Kazakhstan.
