The construction of a modular NPP is considered the most suitable option for Armenia, said Mesrop Mesropyan, Chairman of the Public Services Regulatory Commission of Armenia. According to him, instead of one large station with a capacity of 400 MW, it is more efficient to use eight modules of 50 MW each. This scheme provides greater operational flexibility and increases the efficiency of the power system.
The head of the PSRC noted that American modular stations will be equipped with a passive cooling system, and about 80–90% of the equipment will be produced in the countries of origin of the technologies. Reactor units are planned to be placed underground, which increases safety and reduces risks compared to existing facilities.
Answering criticism that the United States is building modular NPPs for the first time, Mesropyan clarified that 51 modular station projects are already in the design stage in 10 countries. In Armenia, this approach will allow combining modern technologies with reliable operation and support for international nuclear safety standards.
