On November 4th, Kazakhstan's Energy Minister Yerlan Akdenizov stated that his country is in negotiations with China's nuclear industry group regarding the construction conditions and timeline for the country's second nuclear power plant, Moynkum. The goal is to complete the related construction project by 2035.
On that day, Akkenernov said at a government press conference that Kazakhstan’s first nuclear power plant, “Balkash”, will be built by a consortium led by the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation. The second nuclear power plant, “Moinqum”, is currently under cooperation discussions with the Chinese Nuclear Industry Group.
He pointed out that the two sides are currently discussing the specific parameters of the project, trading conditions, and construction timelines. The Kazakh side believes that both nuclear power plants are expected to be completed before 2035.
Previously, Kazakhstan President Tokayev stated in his state speech on October 28 that the construction of the “Balkhash” nuclear power plant should be launched by 2027. At the same time, he mentioned studying the signing of comprehensive cooperation agreements and starting the “Moinkum” nuclear power plant project as soon as possible. He emphasized that relevant negotiations must fully take into account Kazakhstan’s national interests.
On November 3, Jumanarlin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the National Economy of Kazakhstan, further revealed that Kazakhstan plans to sign an intergovernmental agreement for the construction of the "Moinkum" nuclear power plant by the end of 2027, and to establish a national uranium strategic reserve to ensure the supply of nuclear fuel in the country.
In recent years, Kazakhstan has been continuously promoting the development of nuclear power to meet its growing electricity demand. By 2025, Kazakhstan has decided that the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation will lead the construction of the first nuclear power plant, and China National Nuclear Corporation has been identified as the preferred partner for the second nuclear power plant.
According to the current plan, both nuclear power plants will be built near Lake Balkhash. Each plant will be equipped with two 1200-megawatt nuclear reactors, resulting in a total installed capacity of 2400 megawatts.
