Uzbekistan is set to construct its second nuclear power plant, as President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasised the necessity of stable electricity supply to attract foreign investment. The announcement was made during a ceremony for investment projects in the Khorezm region on August 17, 2026. Although details regarding the location, capacity, and timeline for the new plant are yet to be disclosed, Mirziyoyev highlighted the importance of reliable electricity and predictable energy prices for potential investors. He stated, ‘Why do investors come here? What is their first question? ‘I will bring my investment, but what will the price of electricity be? What guarantees will there be?” This underscores the government’s commitment to implementing its energy strategy through 2030, aiming to ensure dependable power supplies and reduce production costs.
Uzbekistan’s long-term energy strategy includes a significant expansion of nuclear power, with plans to increase nuclear generation capacity from 0.3 GW by 2030 to 4 GW by 2040. This expansion would position nuclear energy as a dominant source of electricity, surpassing coal. The head of Uzatom, Azim Akhmedkhazhayev, noted that the site of the first nuclear power project has the potential for up to four large reactors, although no decisions have been made regarding such an expansion.
The first nuclear power complex is currently under construction near Lake Tuzkan in the Farish district of Jizzakh region, with Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom involved in the project. The facility will feature two small RITM-200N reactor units and two larger VVER-1000 units, with a total generating capacity of approximately 2.1 GW. These reactors are expected to commence operations between 2029 and 2035, contributing significantly to Uzbekistan’s electricity supply.
Uzbekistan’s nuclear energy ambitions have sparked public debate, with proponents arguing that nuclear power will enhance reliability and support industrial growth, while critics express concerns over environmental safety and project costs. Public hearings regarding the first nuclear power plant were conducted in December 2025, with Uzatom reporting satisfactory outcomes. As preparations for the second plant commence, nuclear energy is poised to play a crucial role in meeting Uzbekistan’s rising electricity demand and fostering future investment.
