Mikhadyuk: BelNPP construction schedule unaffected by macroeconomic situation in Russia

The macroeconomic situation in Russia has not affected the BelNPP construction schedule and its financing, Belarus’ Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadiuk told a briefing “Safe development of nuclear energy and non-proliferation regime – the guarantees the future of mankind” in BelTA’s press center. 

All the organizations involved in the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant are paid in Russian rubles, which is compliance with the relevant document.

"Indeed, the macroeconomic processes that we witnessed at the end of last year did affect the purchasing power of the Russian ruble. We addressed these issues in a prompt way, and adopted the appropriate measures, which allowed us to continue the construction of the nuclear plant in accordance with the schedule approved by the contract,” said Mikhail Mikhadyuk.

The purchase and delivery of equipment is on schedule, he said. "There have been no problems with the financing to pay for the works performed," said the Deputy Minister.

The Belarusian nuclear power plant is being built using the AES-2006 design. The plant will be located 18km away from the town of Ostrovets, Grodno Oblast. The BelNPP will have two power-generating units with the total output capacity of up to 2,400MW (2x1,200MW). The Russian merged company OAO NIAEP – ZAO ASE is the general designer and the general contractor of the project. The first power-generating unit of the nuclear power plant is scheduled for launch in 2018, the second one in 2020.