Armenia and US Discuss Construction of New Nuclear Power Plant

Appointment of New Head of Project Company Expected to Accelerate Preparation for Construction

The issue of constructing a new nuclear power unit in Armenia was discussed by Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Narek Apitonyan and an American delegation led by US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Security Assistance Shona Wilson. The parties reviewed current energy cooperation programs and prospects for its further development.

Apitonyan announced that Garik Nalbandyan has been appointed acting CEO of the company "Construction of a New Nuclear Power Unit". According to the Deputy Minister, this appointment could give additional impetus to project preparation, including interaction with relevant American companies. The company, established in 2024, is engaged in studying possible technologies and preparing proposals for the construction of new nuclear capacities.

Image source: arka

Armenia plans to build a new NPP within the next 8–10 years. Currently, the country is studying various technological options and the experience of potential partners from Russia, the USA, France, South Korea, and China. The existing Armenian NPP is located near Metsamor, approximately 30 km from Yerevan, and remains the only nuclear power plant in the South Caucasus. Its operation has been extended until 2026, and preparations are underway for a further ten-year extension of its service life.