Almaty (TDI): In a bid to expand its energy capacity, Kazakhstan has intensified discussions on nuclear power with South Korea.
From October 22 to 25, Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister Almasadam Satkaliev led a delegation to South Korea, engaging in high-level talks with prominent energy firms and government officials.
The focal point of the visit revolved around collaboration in the nuclear sector.
Satkaliev held discussions with South Korean Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy, focusing not only on nuclear energy but also on strengthening ties in the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors.
Meetings were also held with senior representatives from leading Korean firms, including Doosan Enerbility, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC), and Samsung C&T.
The discussions explored the possibility of Korean firms joining an international consortium to support Kazakhstan’s nuclear ambitions.
Also Read: Chinese Companies Expand Investments in Kazakhstan
Satkaliev noted that Kazakhstan aims to finalize decisions on this consortium model by 2025.
If successful, the venture will position South Korea’s industry giants alongside companies from Russia, France, and China, marking a significant step toward the construction of Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant.
The Kazakh delegation’s talks with Doosan Enerbility culminated in a memorandum of understanding, focusing on studying the potential for establishing the company’s presence in Kazakhstan, with a proposed office in Astana.
Also Read: Kazakhstan Gives Official Nod to Nuclear Power Referendum
Currently, Doosan Enerbility is already partnering with Kazakhstan to build a 1,000 MW gas turbine plant in the Turkestan region.
This collaboration is part of a broader effort, including technical audits with KEPCO KPS, to upgrade Kazakhstan’s aging energy infrastructure, reduce emissions, and extend equipment longevity.
Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Ambitions
Kazakhstan’s nuclear ambitions gained significant momentum following a national referendum on October 6, where the public expressed support for nuclear energy development.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has advocated for an international consortium that would include Rosatom from Russia, EDF from France, KHNP from South Korea, and China’s CNNC.
This coalition aims to leverage advanced technology, expertise, and financial backing, ensuring the safe and efficient construction of the nuclear facility on the shores of Lake Balkhash.
As Kazakhstan navigates a path toward reduced energy dependency, construction of the nuclear plant is tentatively scheduled to commence in the coming years, with completion targeted by 2035.
The final decision on consortium structure and partnerships is anticipated by 2025, signaling Kazakhstan’s strategic intent to bolster energy security and sustain its economic growth.
