Commissioning works are Akkuyu Unit 1, which is now on the homestretch to going critical. Simultaneously, construction and installation operations are underway at the other three power units. In total, there will be 560 buildings and structures erected for the power plant. Here is the latest news from the major construction site.
In early February, main step-up transformers were installed at Unit 1. They belong to the key components of the reactor unit’s power output system. “The transformers will serve to transmit electricity produced by the turbine generator to the switchgear and then to the Republic of Türkiye’s national power grid. They are equipped with advanced protection systems and special switching devices allowing for smooth voltage regulation,” said Akkuyu Nuclear CEO Sergey Butskikh. Each power unit has four — three operational and one backup — single-phase transformers. A single transformer weighs 283 tonnes.
Previously, the turbine generator stator was installed at Unit 2. This is a stationary part of the turbine generator that converts the magnetic field into electric current. The stator is one of the heaviest components: it weighs 437 tonnes and is 12 meters long. “Thus, we are gradually moving from construction work to the installation of turbine components in the turbine hall of the power unit, ensuring the necessary groundwork for further installation and commissioning,” Sergey Butskikh pointed out.
The construction site is in the focus of attention for Türkiye’s top leadership and Rosatom executives. In late January, the site was visited by Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar and Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev. The parties discussed the current status of the project and key tasks in preparing Unit 1 for commissioning. The guests inspected the progress of work at the main facilities of the first power unit. They visited the main control room of Unit 1, where the shift personnel are already working on a scheduled basis, and inspected the switchgear equipment.
“Rosatom’s priority task is to bring Akkuyu Unit 1 to first criticality and then to first electricity. Construction work at Unit 1 was nearly 99% complete by the end of last year, with 65% of commissioning operations also finished. We can say that we are now on the homestretch to going critical. A stable connection with Türkiye’s power grid has been established. Our task for the current year is to carry out all necessary procedures under the supervision of Turkish and Russian regulators in preparation for generating the first electricity. It is worth noting the participation of the two countries’ leadership in the project — this is a great honor for us and no less greater responsibility,” Alexey Likhachev said.
The parties emphasized that safety remains the utmost priority at every stage of the project, and every on-site operation complies strictly with quality requirements and international standards.
The importance of the Akkuyu NPP for Türkiye’s energy sector, economy, education, and environment was discussed at the International Ayder Energy Forum held in January. More than 2,000 companies are involved as suppliers and contractors at various stages of the Akkuyu project. When operational, the nuclear power plant will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 18 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year by replacing coal and gas generation. A large-scale training program for the operating personnel is in place: over 600 Turkish nationals will receive engineering degrees from leading Russian technical universities, and more than 300 of them are already working at the Akkuyu NPP.
Before starting their education in Russia, Turkish students undergo a comprehensive adaptation program. In late January, they visited one of Russia’s leading technical universities, where they will begin their studies next academic year. They learned about the achievements of past graduates, visited academic buildings, inspected technical equipment, and spoke with professors. “The tour gave us additional incentive — we want to move on to specialized subjects faster and become real professionals so we can return and work at the Akkuyu NPP,” said Salih Sahin, head of the Turkish group in the preparatory department of the Akkuyu NPP personnel training program.
Parallel to training operating personnel, Akkuyu Nuclear is working actively to promote nuclear energy among Turkish youth. In late January, engineering students from Konya visited the site and the training center. Akkuyu Nuclear employees told the guests about the technological solutions used in the plant’s construction, as well as personnel training and professional development opportunities for young talent.
Photo by: Akkuyu Nuclear JSC
