The Ministry of Energy is strongly backing the initiative to implement small modular reactors (SMRs) in Ukraine. During a session of the Ukrainian Parliament's Energy Committee, First Deputy Minister of Energy Artem Nekrasov reported on two collaborative projects with American partners.
The first project, named «Phoenix», aims to install SMRs at coal-fired power plants. The second project, «Hephaestus», involves utilizing small modular reactors to modernize the steel industry.
Nekrasov mentioned that an interagency working group has been established within the Ministry of Energy to address the construction of SMRs in Ukraine. This group will analyze international experience and potential risks.
Additionally, on October 9, a draft law regarding the implementation of SMRs in Ukraine was presented at the parliamentary energy committee meeting. The initiators are confident that the construction of SMRs will help restore energy infrastructure and reduce dependence on gas and coal imports, as well as attract private investments.
Specifically, according to subcommittee head Anatoliy Kostiukh, private companies will be allowed to independently choose operators for their nuclear facilities from licensed companies.
According to the presentation shown during the meeting, the cost of constructing SMRs is estimated to be between 6000 and 12000 USD per kW, while retrofitting thermal power plants will cost 2000 to 3000 USD per kW.