Preliminary engineering surveys for a proposed high-capacity nuclear power plant in the Hambyl district of Almaty Region began last week, marking the project’s formal launch.

The event was attended by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, Kazakhstan Atomic Energy Agency Chairman Almasadam Satkaliyev, and Almaty Region Akim Marat Sultangaziyev.

Specialists from Rosatom’s Engineering Division have started drilling the first exploratory borehole and collecting soil samples to assess seismic stability, hydrogeological features, and other key site parameters.

At least 50 boreholes, ranging from 30 to 120 metres in depth, will be drilled during this stage. The final location of the plant will be determined after the survey results are reviewed.

The studies aim to ensure compliance with international and national safety standards, mitigate environmental and technological risks, and provide the basis for the plant’s detailed design.

“The launch of engineering surveys in Ulken marks the beginning of the journey toward the first high-capacity nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan’s modern history,” said Likhachev.

“Rosatom is ready to apply all its accumulated experience to implement this strategically important project for Kazakhstan’s development.”

The planned facility will feature Generation III+ VVER-1200 pressurised water reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 MW.

The design meets the highest international safety standards and is in operation or under construction in Russia, Belarus, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, and China. The reactors have a service life of 60 years, with the potential for a 20-year extension.

During the ceremony, employees from nuclear plants in Russia, Turkey, Belarus, Hungary, and Bangladesh — where VVER-1200 units are in use or being built — addressed local residents.

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