Lukashenko: It is imperative to ensure safe, reliable operation of BelNPP

Radiation safety and operational reliability of the Belarusian nuclear power plant is ‘a priority of priorities', Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at a meeting to discuss the Belarusian nuclear power plant (BelNPP), BelTA has learned. “The construction of Belarus' first nuclear power plant is one of the biggest and most technologically advanced projects that we have carried out together with the Russians. A lot has already been done to implement this project,” the head of state said. In particular, the first power unit has been put into operation and it functions steadily, producing electricity for the power grid. According to the president, the first unit has already generated more than 12.5 billion kWh since it went online, which allowed replacing over 3 billion cubic meters of gas and saving more than $400 million for the country. “The result is not bad for a start,” the Belarusian leader noted.

As for the second power unit, the physical start-up phase is underway, the unit is to be connected to the grid in April 2023, Aleksandr Lukashenko stated. “I have repeatedly emphasized that radiation safety and operational reliability of the nuclear power plant is a priority of priorities,” the head of state said. “We discussed these matters thoroughly when we were weighing up whether we should go for this project, we took into account the world experience. The highest technologies are used here. This is the asset of our people. Therefore, all aspects of the construction and operation of the nuclear power plant require special attention and a balanced approach,” he added. Aleksandr Lukashenko recalled that certain destructive groups opposed the construction of the nuclear power plant, especially during the 2020