American company studies small modular reactor feasibility in Armenia

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. An American company has been carrying out exploratory work in Armenia to determine which small modular reactor (SMR) would match the country’s needs, an official told Armenpress.

The research is part of the Armenian government’s intentions to build a new nuclear power plant. 

Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures, Hakob Vardanyan, told Armenpress that the research will be completed by spring 2025. 

“One of the renowned American companies is carrying out that work at the order of the US government, in collaboration with the Armenian side,” Vardanyan said, without naming the company engaged in the research. “The goal is to determine which of the small modular reactors offered by American producers would technologically maximally match the needs of Armenia.”

In terms of Armenia’s request of joint the 123 Agreement with the United States, Vardanyan said that the process could take a while.

“The Armenian side’s application is under consideration in line with internal U.S. procedures. Various American officials have numerously spoken about this, saying that this is a rather lengthy process,” he said.