As reported earlier by Vladimir Semashko, First Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus, commissioning of the first unit was rescheduled from 2018 to 2019. “The information provided by Belarus is true to the fact. We agree with our Belarus customer’s estimates that 2019 is the most real commissioning date for the first Belarusian power unit,” Rosatom’s representative said.

According to him, Rosatom understands that one of the most important drivers of nuclear development is public acceptance of the first nuclear station in Belarus. Being a longstanding partner of Belarus, Rosatom agreed to replace the reactor vessel of the first unit.

“I would like to stress it once again – there are no technical problems that might prevent the vessel from being used as intended. It is functional and in good condition, which is confirmed by a series of tests. Rosatom also plans to engage a team of international experts for vessel diagnostics. Further actions will be based on the expert opinion about the vessel,” the representative said.

In mid-November, the Department for Nuclear and Radiation Safety of the Ministry for Emergency Situations of Belarus (Gosatomnadzor) issued a license to AtomTechEnergo for the provision of specific, nuclear safety related services. The license enables AtomTechEnergo to carry out commissioning services at Belarusian Units 1 and 2 and has an unlimited period of validity. This is the second time AtomTechEnergo is licensed by Gosatomnadzor – the first license was received in July 2016 and pertains to fire safety services.