Preliminary Cost of Kazakhstan’s First Nuclear Power Plant Estimated at $14 Billion

Photo: gov.kz

The construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant, with a planned capacity of 2.4 GW, is expected to cost at least $14 billion, according to Almasadam Satkaliyev, head of the national Atomic Energy Agency, Kursiv.kz reports.

“The final cost will be determined based on the feasibility study (FS). For now, we have indicative parameters submitted by vendors as part of the tender process. We can't disclose these figures yet due to confidentiality agreements. However, based on international benchmarks, a plant of this scale typically costs around $14 billion or more,” Satkaliyev stated.

The plant is slated for construction in the village of Ulken in Zhambyl District of the Almaty Region, on the shores of Lake Balkhash. Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom has been selected as the lead contractor, having submitted what officials deemed the most competitive proposal. The estimated construction timeline is seven years.

Satkaliyev emphasized that Rosatom was chosen to lead the international consortium largely due to the proposed construction schedule. He also noted that a second nuclear plant is planned to be built with Chinese participation, though specific cost estimates will only be available following negotiations with the Chinese side.