Belarusian NPP design praised as advanced and safe

The design of the Belarusian nuclear power plant is the most advanced and safest in the world today, Belarus’ Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk said in an interview with Russia 24 TV Channel in Moscow, spokeswoman for the Energy Ministry Zhanna Zenkevich told BelTA.

Mikhail Mikhadyuk noted that before launching the project Belarus carefully studied the proposals from the countries - leaders in nuclear construction. "All reasons and factors considered, Belarus made a choice in favor the Russian general contractor. The main advantage of Rosatom is the highest security and reliability standards in nuclear power engineering. Not least, of course, important was the fact that Belarus and Russia have strong long-lasting traditions of mutually beneficial cooperation and similar technical requirements in energy production. Today, the construction of the nuclear power station near Ostrovets is the biggest project currently in progress in the Belarus-Russia Union State,” he added.

According to Mikhail Mikhadyuk, the quality of construction works is high, which was recognized not only by Belarus and Russia but also by independent experts in the field of nuclear energy. The project is on schedule, involves both Belarusian specialists (about 80% last year) and Russian builders. In 2016, when the installation of the power equipment commences, the number of Russian specialized companies will increase.

Within the framework of this project Belarus and Russia cooperate on a range of other areas, including the training of highly qualified personnel for the future plant, and development of the infrastructure.

The Belarusian delegation led by Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk is in Moscow to participate in the 7th International Forum Atomexpo 2015.