Research has begun in Armenia aimed at constructing a modern nuclear energy source. The work is being conducted by a leading American company in collaboration with Armenian partners, said Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Hakob Vardanyan, according to "Armenpress."
The results of the studies are expected no later than spring 2025. Deputy Minister Vardanyan stated that the current phase involves feasibility studies for the construction of a new nuclear power unit (or units) in the country.
"This work is being carried out under the direction of the U.S. government in cooperation with the Armenian side by one of the reputable American companies. The goal is to determine which of the small modular reactors offered by American manufacturers is technologically best suited to Armenia's needs," Vardanyan explained.
The Deputy Minister also confirmed that Armenia has requested to join the "123 Agreement" with the U.S. to gain access to American civilian nuclear technologies. "The Armenian application is currently under review according to U.S. internal procedures. Various U.S. officials have indicated that this is a lengthy process," Vardanyan added.
Earlier BMG reported that the Armenian NPP supplies about one-third of the country's total energy needs. Its operational life was extended until 2036 after modernization, but it will need to be decommissioned and replaced afterward.
Currently, the operation of the Metsamor NPP relies on the Russian "Rosatom" for both fuel supplies and technological upgrades. However, in early August, the Armenian government established a state-owned company to build a new nuclear power unit to replace the existing plant.
It is expected that within the next two years, this company will present a plan for constructing the new NPP, including the selection of a technology supplier and the plant's capacity. Armenian officials have previously stated their intention to explore cooperation options with China, Russia, South Korea, and the United States.
