Uzbekistan to Begin Building First Small-Scale Nuclear Plant in 2026

Project Director at Atomstroyexport, a subsidiary of Russia’s Rosatom group Pavel Bezrukov has said that Uzbekistan is set to begin construction of its first small-scale nuclear power plant in July 2026, marking a significant step in the country’s long-term energy development strategy.

Bezrukov noted that the project represents a major milestone in Uzbekistan’s energy policy, aiming to establish nuclear energy as a key pillar of the national energy sector, The Caspian Post informs via Uzbek media.

“This project will reshape Uzbekistan's role in the regional energy landscape,” Bezrukov stated. “The country is transitioning from a consumer of gas and other energy resources to a reliable electricity producer-not only for domestic needs, but potentially for neighboring countries as well.”

The nuclear facility will be constructed in the Farish district of the Jizzakh region. The main phase of construction is expected to begin in mid-2026 and will include not only the physical development of the plant but also its eventual operation.

Beyond energy production, the initiative is designed to support broader economic and technological development, including:

Training a new generation of nuclear energy specialists

Developing a domestic industrial base

Creating technology and energy parks

Providing affordable and stable electricity nationwide

The project is seen as a key component of Uzbekistan’s efforts to diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and build a more sustainable and resilient power sector.