Armenian nuclear power plant to continue running, but supplemented by new power unit
A new nuclear power unit will be built in Armenia which will annually produce 600 megawatts of energy.
• Should Armenia’s nuclear power plant be renewed or replaced completely?
• Energy security in Armenia: accomplishments, dangers and risks
Operations of nuclear power plant must be extended
The Metsamor nuclear power plant has been the subject of controversy for a long time.
Some international structures, including the European Union, insist on either the closure or modernization of the station.
The EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement demands that Armenian close the nuclear power plant and replace it with new energy capacities. But the authorities of the country have already stated that the terms of operation will be extended because Armenia is currently unable to build a new plant or extend its existing capacity.
At the moment, work is underway that will prolong the safe operation of the station. However, it is unclear how long this period will be extended.
A new power unit will also reportedly be built and will cost Armenia $5 billion.
The nuclear power plant will close when other power sources are brought online
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the issue of closing the nuclear power plant is not on the agenda. The agreement with the EU, he says, does not demand the closure of the power plant:
“I want to state that in the Agreement on Comprehensive and Expanded Partnership, the topic of closing the nuclear power plant is linked to the creation of energy sources of adequate power. Our agenda is not the closure of nuclear power plants, but extending their capacities.”
