ArmInfo.Armenia intends to further develop close cooperation with the IAEA and partner countries to determine the optimal solution for replacing the existing power unit, taking into account economic efficiency, safety, and the specific characteristics and nature of the country's energy system, as stated by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in his address at the Global Atomic Forum in Moscow on September 25.
As Pashinyan noted, nuclear energy plays a key role in ensuring a stable and clean energy supply. It helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions and supports low-carbon development goals. The widespread adoption of digital technologies and artificial intelligence is leading to a significant increase in electricity consumption. This, in turn, increases the relevance of nuclear energy as a stable and environmentally friendly energy source. In the future, nuclear energy will become an important element of a sustainable energy balance. "At the same time, every effort must be made to ensure nuclear safety and security. Armenia takes its international obligations seriously and reaffirms its commitment to the standards and principles of the international non-proliferation regime," he emphasized.
Taking these considerations into account, the Armenian government has approved a policy to maintain the nuclear power plant as a vital component of the country's electricity balance. Today, approximately 30% of all electricity in Armenia is generated by the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant. " Armenian Nuclear Power Plant's safe operation is a strategic priority for the Armenian government, playing a central role in ensuring our energy security, fulfilling nationally determined targets under the Paris Agreement, and supporting national economic growth. The strategic importance of nuclear energy places a special responsibility on us for both present and future generations." "We are making every effort to maintain the highest safety standards during the operation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant," the Armenian Prime Minister said.
In this spirit, inspection and expert assessment missions are regularly conducted, the reports of which clearly demonstrate that Armenia operates the NPP in accordance with IAEA safety standards, as evidenced by the absence of any incidents related to nuclear or radiation safety. This principle has underpinned the large-scale modernization carried out at the plant in recent years, enabling us to extend its service life until 2026," he continued.
"Based on this experience, Armenia, like many other countries, has decided to further extend the service life of its NPP from 2026 to 2036. The modernization and extension of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant project is not simply a technical undertaking, but the outcome of Armenia's fruitful and trusting partnership with the Rosatom State Corporation and other international partners." This extension will lay a solid foundation for a smooth transition to a new power unit upon completion of the extended life of the Armenian NPP, which is our ultimate goal. In this context, Armenia intends to further develop close cooperation.
"We are collaborating with the IAEA and partner countries to determine the optimal solution for replacing the existing power unit, taking into account economic efficiency, safety, and the specific characteristics and nature of the country's energy system. New energy facilities being commissioned will become an important factor in regional development," Pashinyan stated. According to him, the transparent policy of the Armenian authorities in safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy remains the foundation for exploring advanced nuclear technologies. Non-energy applications of nuclear technologies, such as medicine, ecology, agriculture, science, and education, are also important.
"We gratefully acknowledge the support and expert assistance, knowledge, and recommendations from the IAEA and partner countries, which play a vital role in the development of these sectors in our country. We hope that mutually beneficial cooperation with international partners in the peaceful use of nuclear energy will continue to develop and strengthen." Together we can create a sustainable future for our countries by focusing our efforts on developing new technologies, improving security, and protecting the environment," the Armenian Prime Minister concluded.
