19 Sep (NucNet): Construction of phase two of the Smolensk nuclear power station in Smolensk Oblast, western Russia, would bring about 300 billion rubles (about 7.8 billion US dollars, six billion euros) of investment to the region, a public meeting heard this week.
Alexander Medvedev, first deputy governor of the region, said a decision to build new generating capacity is “crucial” for the region because it would bring energy security, economic stability and lay the basis for continued economic development.
Mr Medvedev said state nuclear operator Rosenergoatom wants to build two Generation III+ VVER-TOI light water reactors at the site.
The existing Smolensk nuclear station has three commercially operational reactors, all of the RBMK-1000 light water graphite design.
