Uzbekistan’s ambitious nuclear energy program reached a critical milestone as President Shavkat Mirziyoyev issued a directive to commence concrete pouring for the country’s first nuclear power plant by March 2026. The announcement, delivered by Azim Akhmedkhazhaev, Director of the Atomic Energy Agency (Uzatom), signals the transition from preparatory phases to active construction of the groundbreaking facility in Jizzakh region.
During a high-level meeting focused on Tashkent’s energy supply challenges, the president emphasized the strategic importance of accelerating the nuclear project timeline. “The head of state ordered that the pouring of the first concrete should begin in March 2026,” Akhmedkhazhaev explained, adding that this milestone represents the beginning of full-scale construction operations when work will unfold at maximum capacity.
Rigorous oversight and quality standards
The Uzbek leadership has established demanding requirements for both timeline adherence and construction quality. Akhmedkhazhaev revealed that the president receives comprehensive progress reports every two weeks, demonstrating the government’s commitment to maintaining strict project oversight. This year will see the completion of crucial environmental impact assessments and safety evaluation documentation, clearing the path for the next development phase.
All preparatory engineering work has been finalized, with international missions from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) providing positive assessments for continued construction at the selected site. Site preparation activities, including excavation work, are currently underway to ensure readiness for the March 2026 concrete pouring deadline.
Expanded project scope and international partnerships
The nuclear project has evolved significantly since its inception. The original contract, signed on May 27, 2024, in Tashkent, outlined construction of a small modular nuclear power plant featuring six reactors of 55 MW each. Atomstroyexport, Rosatom’s engineering division, serves as the general contractor, with planned involvement of local companies in construction activities.
In a notable development, discussions between the presidents of Uzbekistan and Russia in June 2025 resulted in project modernization plans. The expanded scope now encompasses both a two-unit large-capacity nuclear power plant alongside the originally planned two-unit small modular facility, potentially doubling the project’s scale and economic impact.
Strategic implications for regional development
This nuclear energy initiative represents a transformative opportunity for international companies operating in Central Asia’s construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. The project’s massive scale will require sophisticated construction materials, specialized engineering equipment, and advanced manufacturing components — creating substantial procurement opportunities for foreign suppliers. Companies specializing in nuclear-grade construction materials, precision manufacturing, and industrial equipment could find significant market entry points through this landmark project.
Beyond immediate construction opportunities, the nuclear plant development signals Uzbekistan’s commitment to energy diversification and industrial modernization. This creates a ripple effect for international businesses in sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing to logistics services. The involvement of both Russian technology and potential integration of Chinese and European non-nuclear technologies demonstrates the project’s openness to international partnerships, offering multiple avenues for foreign companies to participate in Uzbekistan’s energy transformation journey.
