News - US company conducting study within framework of building new nuclear power unit in Armenia

An American company has been carrying out exploratory work in Armenia to determine which small modular reactor (SMR) would match the country’s needs, an official told Armenpress, the latter reports. The research is part of the Armenian government’s intentions to build a new nuclear power plant. Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of Armenia, Hakob Vardanyan, told Armenpress that the study will be completed by Spring 2025. “One of the renowned American companies is carrying out that work at the order of the US government, in collaboration with the Armenian side,” Vardanyan said, without naming the company engaged in the research. “The goal is to determine which of the small modular reactors offered by American producers would technologically maximally match the needs of Armenia.” In terms of Armenia’s request of joint the 123 Agreement with the United States, Vardanyan said that the process could take a while. “The Armenian side’s application is under consideration in line with internal US procedures. Various American officials have numerously spoken about this, saying that this is a rather lengthy process,” he said.