Uzbekistan’s Nuclear Dawn: Pioneering Central Asia’s Clean Energy Future
What if Central Asia’s next major energy breakthrough wasn’t oil, gas, or even solar—but a quiet nuclear revolution unfolding in the heart of Uzbekistan? As the region grapples with rising electricity demands, carbon reduction commitments, and energy security challenges, Uzbekistan is stepping into an ambitious role: to become Central Asia’s first nuclear power hub. With a legacy of nuclear expertise, a bold strategy centered on both large-scale reactors and innovative Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and a growing network of international partnerships, the country is charting a new course in its energy future.
Decarbonization Imperatives and Energy Profile
Uzbekistan ranks as the second-highest emitter in the Central Asian region, with its CO₂ intensity of GDP approximately 77% above the global average. The energy sector is the principal contributor to national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for nearly 83% or 116.1 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Within this sector, the residential and industrial segments collectively generate over 70% of the total GHG emissions. Consequently, decarbonizing Uzbekistan’s energy landscape is pivotal for meeting the country’s climate targets under the Paris Agreement.
Currently, Uzbekistan’s energy mix is heavily reliant on natural gas, which constitutes 85.9% of total energy consumption. Renewable energy, comprised solely of hydropower, accounts for a mere 0.9%. Electricity generation mirrors this pattern, with natural gas contributing 88%, while hydropower represents only 7%. With electricity demand projected to nearly double to 120 TWh by 2030, Uzbekistan faces an urgent need to scale up low-carbon electrification.
In response, the Ministry of Energy released a ‘Concept Note’ in May 2020, outlining the nation's vision for its electricity sector through 2030. This framework envisions 15% of electricity being generated from nuclear energy by the end of the decade, with solar and wind sources contributing 8% and 7%, respectively.
Advancements in the Nuclear Sector
Uzbekistan has a longstanding foundation in nuclear science, having operated a 10 MW research reactor at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Tashkent since 1959. Building upon this heritage, the country is now pursuing an ambitious nuclear energy strategy centered around the construction of a large-scale nuclear power plant in collaboration with Russia’s Rosatom. The bilateral agreement, signed in 2017, involves the development of two VVER-1200 pressurized water reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 MWe, for a total output of 2.4 GWe. The project is estimated to cost USD 11 billion and is intended to enhance energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports, and support industrial growth.
However, recent strategic priorities have shifted towards the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) due to their scalability, cost efficiency, and suitability for diverse applications.
The Strategic Role of SMRs
SMRs, defined as nuclear reactors with a capacity of up to 300 MW, are gaining international recognition for their modular construction, reduced capital requirements, and accelerated deployment timelines. Uzbekistan’s SMR initiative leverages Rosatom’s RITM-200N technology—adapted from nuclear-powered icebreaker reactors—for its first land-based application.
The planned SMR facility will be located in the Jizzakh region and will include six reactors, each delivering 190 MW of thermal output and 55 MWe of electric output. Designed with an operational lifespan of 60 years, the RITM-200N offers a compact footprint and reduced exclusion zones, making it suitable for proximity to population centers. In addition to electricity generation, the plant is intended to provide district heating and industrial steam.
Although the RITM-200N has not yet been deployed on land, the first such installation is under construction in Yakutia, Russia, and is scheduled for commissioning in 2027. Uzbekistan’s proactive investment in this technology positions it as a regional frontrunner in SMR deployment.
Globally, more than 80 SMR designs are in development; however, only a limited number—such as Russia’s KLT-40S and China’s HTR-PM—are currently operational. Uzbekistan’s early adoption thus presents significant advantages, including scalability, export potential, and reduced financial risk compared to conventional nuclear projects.
Strategic Partnerships and International Engagement
Uzbekistan’s nuclear energy expansion is underpinned by strong international cooperation. The partnership with Russia remains central, with Rosatom serving as the general contractor for the Jizzakh SMR project. This collaboration draws upon Rosatom’s extensive global experience, ensuring technical reliability and adherence to international safety standards.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also plays a critical role, having supported over 100 technical cooperation projects in Uzbekistan and provided more than USD 20 million in assistance. Currently, four active projects focus on capacity building and nuclear safety.
In 2024, Uzbekistan broadened its international engagements by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), aimed at collaboration on SMR deployment and uranium production. Additionally, partnerships with France’s Orano have strengthened the country’s integration into the global nuclear supply chain.
These alliances provide access to advanced technologies and established expertise, while mitigating entry barriers for international investors and nuclear business entities.
Uranium Sector: A Vital Strategic Asset
Uzbekistan ranks as the world’s fifth-largest uranium producer, a position that offers strategic leverage amid surging global demand. Uranium demand is projected to increase by 28% by 2030 and nearly double by 2040.
The Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Combine (NMMC) oversees national uranium operations, predominantly using in-situ leaching methods in the Kyzylkum desert. In 2022, Uzbekistan produced 3,500 tonnes of yellowcake (U₃O₈), with key export destinations including the United States, South Korea, and China. A 2024 agreement with China’s China National Uranium Corporation (CNUC) further expands Uzbekistan’s market reach.
Additionally, a joint venture with Orano and Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation at the South Djengeldi project aims to yield 700 tonnes annually for over a decade, increasing production capacity and reinforcing Uzbekistan’s role as a major uranium supplier.
Investment Landscape and Incentives
Uzbekistan’s evolving nuclear landscape offers diverse and compelling opportunities for investors. The Jizzakh SMR project welcomes participation across construction, technology supply, and operational stages. Similarly, the uranium sector is ripe for investment in mining, processing, and export.
The government has introduced several incentives to attract foreign investment, including the adoption of a comprehensive Law on Investments and Investment Activities, along with supplementary reforms to facilitate investor engagement. Key incentives include:
Reduced taxation on subsoil use
Exemptions from customs duties for imported equipment and technology not produced domestically
Creation of free economic zones offering tax benefits
Privatization of state-owned enterprises to encourage foreign direct investment
Further support is being provided through infrastructure development and workforce training. In 2025, a joint engineering school was launched by Uzatom and Rosatom at the National Nuclear Research University MEPhI’s Tashkent branch. This initiative will ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals for the sector’s long-term growth.
Moving Ahead
Uzbekistan’s nuclear energy strategy is more than a response to rising energy demand—it is a calculated move to secure long-term sustainability, industrial growth, and regional influence. With its pioneering adoption of SMRs, robust uranium reserves, and an expanding network of global partnerships, the country is laying the groundwork for a resilient and diversified energy future. For investors and nuclear business groups, Uzbekistan presents a rare convergence of political will, market readiness, and untapped potential. As regulatory reforms ease market entry and infrastructure projects accelerate, the door is wide open for strategic collaborations across the nuclear value chain—from technology deployment and fuel cycle services to education and workforce development. Those who step in early will not only gain access to a rapidly evolving market but also play a defining role in shaping Central Asia’s first nuclear power hub.
