Nikolay Kuzelyov, director general of VNIITFA

– Today we are observing growing aspiration of Russian regions to have nuclear power plants in their territories

This year the authorities of Perm region may start active work for selecting a site for the construction of a nuclear power plant in Perm region. Almost 8mln RUR and 24mln RUR will be allocated for this purpose in 2008 and 2009, respectively.

The residents of Perm region just like their compatriots from other Russian regions need stable energy sources. The local authorities perfectly understand this and are doing their best to build an NPP in their region.

It should be noted that Prikamsk NPP would solve a whole number of problems: it will give the region new jobs, roads, medical and educational institutions and a wide infrastructure.

Today, an NPP is a guarantee of stable development of its host region and a stimulus for long-term investments. That’s why today we are witnessing a growing aspiration of Russian regions to have nuclear power plants in their territories. Kaliningrad and Nizhniy Novgorod regions already enjoy such prospects.

It is also important to note that nuclear power plants have long been recognized to be safer than alternative or traditional power plants. Speaking of CO2 emissions and Kyoto Protocol, I must say that nuclear power plants greatly contribute to the recovery of the environment.
 
Our institute is taking an active part in the implementation of the federal target program for the development of Russia’s nuclear industry in 2007–2010 and -2015. Our solutions and technologies are being used in over 70% of Rosatom’s mega-projects. We are doing our best to help Rosatom to fulfill its plans to build four nuclear reactors a year.