The Long-Term Shutdown of the Nuclear Power Plant is Due to Renovation Works, Says Edward Martirosyan

Edward Martirosyan, the General Director of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant, reports:

“Dear compatriots, recent mass media and social networks have actively discussed the potential closure of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant, while certain forces have made political assessments regarding the upcoming planned shutdown of the plant. In reality, the ANPP continues to operate at a capacity of 407.5 MW, producing up to 10 million kWh of electricity daily.

I would like to clarify that from May 15 to October 2, an annual planned preventive renovation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant will take place. During this period, in collaboration with representatives from Rosatom Service, works will be carried out as part of the project for extending the operational lifespan of the ANPP's Unit 2, including the inspection, renovation, or replacement of important safety components in the reactor's containment.

The majority of the required equipment has already been acquired and is located at the ANPP, with installation set to begin on May 15. It should be noted that a significant portion of this work will be financed by a state budget loan of 63.2 billion drams provided by the Government of Armenia, which will help ensure the continuous reliable operation of the power plant, equip it with the latest modern technologies, and further enhance the safety of the ANPP.

This year, the long-term shutdown of the nuclear power plant, lasting 141 days, is due to an unprecedented volume of renovation work planned to be carried out in almost all production areas of the ANPP. Around 1,000 specialists with rich experience in nuclear energy from abroad, primarily from the Russian Federation, will be involved in these efforts.

The experts of the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Committee of Armenia (NSRC) will also play a crucial role in overseeing the process. After the completion of the planned works this year, the nuclear power plant will apply to the NSRC for an extension of its current operating license.

I consider it essential to note that the planned shutdown of the nuclear power plant is coordinated in advance every year with the Electricity System Operator, which compensates for the required volumes of electricity through other power plants in the republic, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply to all areas of our country.

I assure you that the entire experienced and professional staff of the ANPP is tirelessly working to ensure the reliable and safe operation of the nuclear power plant.”