The Belarusian Nuclear Power Plant (NGP) project is reportedly proceeding without unresolved issues between Moscow and Minsk, according to representatives from Rosatom, the Russian state corporation. This update was shared with RIA News.
The statement notes that the construction delay was tied to the global coronavirus pandemic and broader geopolitical dynamics. Despite these challenges, experts emphasize a priority to adhere to security standards while accelerating project progress.
Rosatom also stated that it maintains close collaboration with Belarusian partners, working together to address any matters that surfaced during project execution, including the timetable for the second power unit’s commissioning.
Officials from the state institution added that, at this stage, there are no contentious or unresolved disputes between Moscow and Minsk. They also highlighted several variables that can influence construction speed for nuclear facilities.
A key factor is Belarus’s decision to venture into large-scale nuclear energy for the first time. Rosatom noted that a nuclear power plant has an expected operational lifespan of around 80 years, accounting for potential downtime. The company indicated a willingness to accommodate the customer at various stages of construction to help maintain progress.
Alexey Likhachev, who previously led Rosatom, has discussed anticipated launch timelines for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in related contexts. [Citation: Rosatom spokesperson]