Russia’s ace up its sleeve is a nuclear plant

Russia is quietly managing to expand its dominance in the nuclear sector. Recently, the Kremlin has announced the construction of more than 10 nuclear plants in different allied countries, has now decided to put its flag in the arctic with a floating nuclear plant.

In short. The Akademik Lomonosov nuclear power plant has generated its first billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy, according to Rosatom reports. The floating nuclear power plant located in the Arctic region of Chukotka has also completed its first fuel cycle. In addition, the nuclear plant, which has been in operation for more than five years, is currently satisfying more than 60% of the area’s energy demand.

Floating nuclear plant. A concept designed to bring clean and stable energy to remote or difficult-to-access regions, such as the Arctic. In this specific case, the central Akademik Lomonosov It is built on a boat.

The Russian floating nuclear plant in more technical terms It is operating with two KLT-40S nuclear reactors, similar to those used by nuclear icebreakers, capable of generating electricity and heat for isolated communities or mining projects. Furthermore, its design is designed to operate in extreme conditions, although poses challenges related to nuclear safety and environmental impact in vulnerable regions.

Other operations. Originally planned to replace the Bilibino nuclear plant, the Akademik Lomonosov It also provides additional services, such as desalination of up to 240,000 cubic meters of water per day, and supplies energy to a population of 5,000 people, including mining operations in the Baimskaya mineral area.

It is not the only plant. The American company Westinghouse and the British Core Power have joined forces to develop floating nuclear plants equipped with ultra-compact eVinci reactors. These fourth-generation modular reactors can generate up to 5 MWe and operate for more than eight years without the need for refueling. In addition, its compact design and complete factory assembly has facilitated its maritime transport, offering a clean and flexible energy solution for islands, ports and coastal communities.

West looking in the rearview mirror. Between the sanctions for the Ukrainian War and the divisions for gas from from Russia. The Kremlin has found its spearhead in the nuclear sector to dominate a large part of the geopolitical framework. Currently, Russia dominates 27% of the world’s conversion capacity and 39% of the global uranium enrichment market, a situation that highlights energy dependency of Western nations.

As the West strives to reduce its energy dependence and achieve its sustainability goals, Russia continues to consolidate its global influence, using both technological innovations and key natural resources. The Ural country’s rise in nuclear capacity will increase this new year 155%, reaching 950 gigawatts in 2050.

Image | Rosatom

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