The construction of a new nuclear power unit is one of the long-term goals of the Armenian government, so no budget funds are allocated for these purposes, said acting head of the atomic energy department Nune Alekyan.

Her remarks came during the panel discussion on prospects for the development of the nuclear industry of Armenia.

According to her, the strategy for the development of energy in Armenia until 2040 has been developed and submitted for consideration by the government, in which the development of the nuclear industry is considered as a priority strategic direction. Speaking about the importance of this field, the acting head noted that the presence of nuclear power plants allows Armenia to reduce associated risks, as well as keep heat emissions low. 

She noted that large-scale work on the modernization of nuclear power plants is currently being carried out, which is planned to be completed in 2022.

The maximum allowable extension of the operating life of nuclear power plants is considered by the government as an opportunity to develop the sphere with minimal costs. “The construction of a new power unit is part of the government’s goals,” she said.

Yuri Sviridenko, the project manager from the Russian side for extending the life of the nuclear power plant, told reporters that the Armenian side has shown some interest in this issue.