Iran and Russia recently made it official and signed an agreement for the construction of eight new nuclear power plants in Iran. This agreement marks a big expansion of their partnership on the nonmilitary use of atomic energy. The agreement involves the construction of small-scale modular reactors (SMRs). In addition to improving Iran’s nuclear energy capacity to 20 gigawatts electric (GWe) by 2040, the plan has several other objectives and milestones.
The agreement was reached during Iranian Vice President Mohammad Eslami’s recent visit to Russia, where he engaged in discussions with Rosatom, Russia’s state atomic energy corporation. Eslami visited several contracted factories and met with relevant scientific & research institutions during his trip. During his time in office, he prioritized strengthening research and education collaboration between the two countries.
Details of the Agreement
Eslami announced that Iran and Russia would conclude formal agreements in the near future. This latest round of opportunity development clears the way for construction to begin. “The contract between the governments of the two countries envisages the construction of eight nuclear power units by Russia, four of which are in Bushehr,” Eslami stated.
The Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) and Rosatom recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) concerning cooperation in the construction of SMRs. This project will likely be one of the mainstays in advancing Iran’s technical knowhow and nuclear technology.
“These reactors will play an important role in the development of technical knowledge and nuclear technology and industries related to the manufacture of power plant tools and equipment in Iran.” – AEOI
Iran and Russia have had defense ties since a 1992 agreement. This agreement established a model for construction of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant based on Russian VVER-1000 technology. Construction at Bushehr began in 1975 with a West German firm. It ultimately ground to a halt in 1979 due to political turmoil. The first power unit of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant implementing Russian technology connected to the national grid in September 2011. Two years later, in September 2013, Iran formally assumed control over its operations.
Progress at Bushehr
At present, Russia is implementing the construction of the second and third units of the Bushehr NPP. This relatively new project is a clear indicator of the dedication of both countries to further develop their nuclear energy know-how. In late December, Eslami met with Rosatom CEO Alexey Likhachev to discuss progress on these units. They discussed other potential areas for future cooperation in the field of peaceful nuclear energy.
She said the mood of the meetings was marked by trust, honesty and a constructive attitude.
“The meeting took place in an atmosphere of mutual trust, openness, and constructiveness,” Likhachev remarked.
More recently, as a further step in this growing partnership, Iran told Russia that it had decided to build more nuclear power plants. This announcement is the latest indication that the administration is prioritizing U.S. energy independence and technological leadership through collaboration with key allies and partners.
Future Prospects
Like the United States, both of these nations see this collaboration as a key move towards realizing positive outcomes for energy security and technology development. The accords are designed to do more than boost Iran’s energy output; they intend to develop local human capital in the field of nuclear science and engineering.