ArmInfo. If economic assessments show that a traditional large nuclear power plant is more cost-effective for us in terms of reducing pressure on tariffs, then we will take that path. Armenian Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure David Khudatyan stated this during a briefing on November 9, commenting at journalists' request on recent government statements that Armenia likely will not have enough small modular reactors, as previously stated.
"I want to emphasize again that this will not be a political decision, but an economic one," he added.
Khudatyan recalled that speculation that modular reactors may not be suitable for Armenia arose due to the increased demand for electricity due to the rapid development of artificial intelligence in the country, in particular the construction of a plant and the implementation of a number of new initiatives.
The minister noted that Armenia is currently considering several proposals from various countries, one of which is the Russian Federation. These proposals differ in their financial estimates and technical content. There are proposals for small modular reactors, and there are proposals for a nuclear power plant operating using traditional technologies.
When asked whether Turkey is setting conditions or demands on Armenia regarding the closure of the existing Metsamor NPP, Khudatyan demurred, noting that Armenia continues to successfully implement the measures envisaged by the Second Operational Program for the NPP. "And our plans are such that the NPP will continue to operate for a long time, and will remain in our energy system until at least 2035, complying with all international safety requirements," the head of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure noted. In this vein, he recalled his recent meeting with the head of the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency), during which the NPP's life extension program was discussed. "We have come to the conclusion that the nuclear power plant is not only important but also safe," Khudatyan emphasized.
Previously, Turkish and Azerbaijani authorities have repeatedly demanded, at various levels and venues, the closure of the nuclear power plant in Armenia, arguing that it poses a threat to the region.
