Uzbekistan has begun construction of its first small-capacity nuclear power plant (SNPP) in the Farish district, marking a major step in the country’s nuclear energy development. The facility will use Russia’s advanced RITM-200N reactor technology, says Rosatom official press release.
This project is the first in the world to host both high- and small-capacity nuclear power units at the same site, setting a new global benchmark for the integration of nuclear generation technologies.
Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and Uzatom Director Azim Akhmedkhadjayev jointly launched the initial phase of construction. The pouring of the “first concrete” for the SNPP’s first unit is planned for spring 2026.
“Today marks a new chapter in Uzbekistan’s nuclear generation program. As with all our international projects, construction of the SNPP will feature a high level of localization, with Uzbek companies actively involved as subcontractors. Rosatom will ensure the plant’s construction and provide comprehensive support throughout its at least 60-year operational lifespan,” said Alexey Likhachev.
Currently, engineering surveys, site preparation, and construction of the installation base are underway. The design documentation is expected to be completed and submitted for review to Uzbek authorities by the end of 2025. During the initial construction phase, around 1.5 million cubic meters of earth will be excavated to a depth of 13 meters.
The project framework was reinforced on September 26, 2025, during the World Atomic Week in Moscow, when Russia and Uzbekistan signed new agreements to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy. Under the deal, the site will include two high-capacity Generation III+ VVER-1000 reactors and two small-capacity RITM-200N reactors, each with a capacity of 55 MW. The parties also finalized key contractual terms for nuclear fuel supply for both reactor types.