Armenia has received proposals for the construction of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) from five countries: Russia, the United States, France, China, and South Korea.
According to reports from Armenian media cited by the Operative Information Center-OMM, a final decision on the specific model has not yet been reached. Officials indicate that a selection could be finalized between late 2024 and 2027. The choice of the model will determine which international partner Armenia collaborates with, as modular nuclear technology is relatively new and requires extensive feasibility studies before implementation.
The initiative follows a 2023 decision by the Armenian government to extend the operational lifespan of the existing Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant until 2036. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan previously stated that the country aims to transition to modular technology by that date to ensure energy security. The Metsamor plant, which utilizes aging Soviet-era technology, has long been a subject of international discussion regarding safety standards and regional environmental impact. The transition to modular reactors is seen as a strategic move to modernize the energy sector while addressing international safety concerns.
