PARIS — Armenia has decided to adopt small modular reactor (SMR) technology and is currently evaluating proposals from international partners as it prepares to transition to a new nuclear power unit, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during the second Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris.
“Today, alongside the development of safety technologies, extending the lifespan of existing nuclear reactors provides a timely and cost-effective path toward achieving zero emissions,” Pashinyan said.
“In this context, Armenia—like many countries represented here—has launched a program to extend the operational life of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant until 2036. This extension will create a solid foundation for a successful and safe transition to a new nuclear power unit.”
“Our attention is focused on innovations in civilian nuclear energy, especially small modular reactor technologies, which offer significant potential. Growing demand is encouraging leading companies to develop safer and more flexible solutions with shorter construction timelines and scalable capacity that can better meet the needs of national power grids,” he noted.
“Taking these factors into account, Armenia has decided to adopt small modular reactor technology. We are currently carefully studying the technologies and evaluating proposals from international partners. The selection process is guided by considerations of reliability, long-term sustainability, and our commitment to the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation,” the prime minister added.
Pashinyan also emphasized that training qualified specialists will be critical for the development of nuclear energy through 2050, highlighting the importance of international educational cooperation.
“Qualified personnel will be the backbone of the nuclear sector—from design and construction to safe operation, maintenance, and ultimately decommissioning. Implementing training and educational programs is essential to ensuring the availability of the necessary workforce. In this regard, Armenia highly values international cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral formats,” he said.
The prime minister noted that throughout the entire operation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant, no nuclear or radiation-related safety incidents have occurred, thanks to the dedication of Armenian specialists and international cooperation.
“In conclusion, I would like to emphasize the importance of the safe management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel, which is critically important for both present and future generations. Protecting human health and the environment must remain our guiding principle,” Pashinyan said.
He added that the summit would help promote new initiatives and partnerships among countries, international organizations, financial institutions, and the energy sector.
“We are confident that this summit will contribute to the development of initiatives and partnerships among countries, international organizations, financial institutions, and the industry. I wish all participants productive and successful work,” the prime minister concluded.
