ArmInfo. Aram Manukyan, number two on the Armenian National Congress party's election list, presented the party's economic program and emphasized the necessity to build a 1,200 MW nuclear power plant in Armenia.
According to Manukyan, nuclear energy is a crucial element of the country's energy strategy. Currently, the politician noted, around 30 countries have nuclear power plants, and Armenia has no right to overlook this form of energy generation. Manukyan continued by stating that the construction of a 1,200 MW nuclear power plant in the country would not only help meet domestic needs but also kickstart large-scale electricity exports, thereby strengthening the energy independence of the Armenian state.
Manukyan stated that Armenia's strategic goal is to maximize its energy independence. He acknowledged that complete autonomy is impossible, but the country must strive to create a stable and manageable energy supply system independent of natural factors. He cited existing energy exchanges with neighboring countries, including Georgia and Turkey, as an example, which, he said, lead to fluctuations in the energy system.
He paid special attention to the development of solar energy, highlighting its potential but also pointing out the risks of unbalanced growth without energy storage systems. In this regard, he proposed developing energy storage infrastructure battery systems, water reservoirs, and regulating capacities to stabilize energy flows.
Note, the Armenian authorities are considering a project to construct a nuclear power plant with small modular reactors. A final decision on this issue will not be made until 2027.
