Narek Apitonyan, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of Armenia, introduced Garik Nalbandyan, acting director of CJSC "Construction of a New Nuclear Power Unit," to the heads of energy companies. At the meeting on October 22, participants discussed current work in the energy sector, existing problems, and prospects for further cooperation.
The company was established by government decision on August 1, 2024, to manage the project for constructing new nuclear facilities. Its tasks include a comparative analysis of proposed reactor technologies and feasibility studies, as well as preparing recommendations to the government on selecting the optimal solution. After the technology is approved, the organization must participate in preparing documents for the construction, financing, ownership, and operation of the future power unit.
Armenia plans to build a new NPP within 8–10 years. Currently, the country is studying proposals and experiences from potential partners from Russia, the USA, France, South Korea, and China. The existing Armenian NPP near Metsamor, approximately 30 km from Yerevan, remains one of the country's main sources of electricity and the only nuclear power plant in the South Caucasus. Its operation has been extended until 2026, with work underway for an additional 10-year extension.