The first nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kazakhstan will be called “Balkhash”, the press service of the Republic’s atomic energy agency reported.
“According to the results of the final meeting of the competition commission, the name “Balkash” atomic electric power stationasy”, which received the largest number of proposals from citizens, was recognised as the winner. the chosen name also corresponds to the international practice of naming nuclear power plants on geographical grounds”, – said in the message on the results of the nationwide competition for the best NPP name.
The contest committee also determined the name in Russian and English: “Balkhash Nuclear Power Plant” and Balkhash Nuclear Power Plant.
The first nuclear power plant, which will be located near Lake Balkhash, will be built by Rosatom. The Russian company has signed a roadmap with Kazakhstan for the construction of two VVER-1200 nuclear power units. The construction of the plant will take approximately 11 years and may be completed in 2035-2036. The issue of attracting state export financing at the expense of the Russian Federation is being worked out for the construction of the plant.
Research work near the village of Ulken on Balkhash started on 8 August. Here, as part of preliminary surveys, Rosatom specialists will study at least three sites in Zhambyl District, drilling 50 wells from 30 to 120m deep. Based on the site’s hydrogeological features, seismic stability parameters and others, a decision will be made on the exact location of the NPP.
The government said that the second and third nuclear power plants in Kazakhstan could be built by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).