The Ministry of Energy is actively supporting the idea of utilizing small modular reactors (SMRs) in Ukraine. Two projects are currently being implemented in collaboration with American partners.
This information was shared by the First Deputy Minister of Energy Artem Nekrasov during a meeting of the Committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on energy and housing and communal services.
The first project, named 'Phoenix,' aims to implement SMRs at coal-fired power plants, while the second project, 'Hephaestus,' involves using small modular reactors for modernizing the steel industry.
Nekrasov stated that an interagency working group has already been established at the Ministry of Energy to address the construction of SMRs in Ukraine. The group members are tasked with examining international experience and potential risks.
Additionally, on October 9, the parliamentary committee on energy presented a draft law regarding the implementation of SMRs in Ukraine. The initiators believe that SMR construction will aid in restoring the energy infrastructure, reducing dependence on gas and coal imports, and attracting private investments.
Specifically, Anatoly Kostyukh, the head of the relevant subcommittee, mentioned that private companies will be able to choose operators for their nuclear facilities from among licensed organizations.
According to the presentation shown during the meeting, the cost of constructing SMRs will range from $6,000 to $12,000 per kW, while retrofitting thermal power plants will cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per kW.