Russia’s Rosatom proposes small modular reactor to Mongolia at COP28
Rosatom presents the concept for constructing an SMR in Mongolia
At the recent COP28 climate change conference hosted by the UN, Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom, presented the concept for constructing a small modular reactor (SMR) in Mongolia. The presentation was made to Dalaijargal Dorjbal, Executive Director of Mongolian state company MonAtom, marking the development of cooperation between Rosatom and foreign partners.
Mongolia, which has substantial known uranium resources, currently does not have nuclear energy. However, the country has been exploring tentative plans, with three possible sites under consideration for the construction of a nuclear reactor.
In a move aimed at ensuring the energy independence of Mongolia, Rosatom and the Mongolian company Dayan Deerkh Energy Ltd signed an agreement on strategic cooperation in June for the joint implementation of projects in the field of nuclear, wind, and hydropower. This collaboration highlights Mongolia’s intent to diversify its energy sources.
Furthermore, in 2018, Rosatom and the Nuclear Energy Commission of Mongolia signed a memorandum of cooperation for the construction of a Centre of Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) in Mongolia. Russian specialists have agreed to assist in determining the preliminary requirements and configuration of CNST facilities. An initial roadmap is being drawn up for the project, marking another significant step towards the development of nuclear energy in Mongolia.
The presentation of the SMR concept to Mongolian officials marks a significant development in the relationship between Rosatom and Mongolia, highlighting the potential for the expansion of nuclear energy in the country. The creation of a Centre of Nuclear Science and Technology, along with the potential construction of a small modular reactor, signifies a new era of energy cooperation between Russia and Mongolia.
