On Sunday, Kazakhstan will hold a referendum on a proposal to build its first nuclear power plant. This initiative, championed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s government, aims to transition away from polluting coal plants and secure a reliable energy supply. However, the plan has sparked considerable controversy, with critics citing concerns about the inherent risks of nuclear power, the country’s past experience with Soviet nuclear testing, and anxieties about Russian involvement in the project.
Despite possessing significant natural gas reserves, Kazakhstan, with a population of 20 million, primarily relies on coal-fired power plants for its electricity needs. While hydroelectric power and the burgeoning renewable energy sector contribute, the nation also imports electricity, primarily from Russia, as its aging infrastructure struggles to meet domestic demand. Coal, unfortunately, is widely recognized as the most polluting energy source, adding to the urgency for alternative options.
The government argues that a nuclear power plant would provide a stable energy source to complement renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. They highlight Kazakhstan’s position as one of the world’s largest uranium producers, making nuclear power a logical choice. “In order not to remain on the sidelines of global progress, we must use our competitive advantages,” President Tokayev emphasized days before the vote. It’s important to note that Kazakhstan currently does not enrich uranium to the level required for nuclear fuel, suggesting a potential reliance on external sources for this crucial component.
The proposed nuclear power plant is estimated to cost between $10 billion and $12 billion. Critics contend that this investment could be better directed toward gas-powered plants, which, although still reliant on fossil fuels, are significantly less polluting than coal plants and pose fewer risks. This debate underscores the complexities of balancing energy needs with environmental concerns.
Kazakhstan’s history with nuclear issues adds another layer to the debate. As part of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan was directly affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986. Thousands of Kazakhs participated in the subsequent cleanup effort, with many enduring long-term health consequences. Furthermore, the country served as the site of numerous Soviet nuclear weapon tests, resulting in vast areas rendered uninhabitable, widespread health issues for residents in nearby areas, and a deep-seated distrust of anything nuclear. These historical experiences have contributed to the public’s apprehension towards the nuclear power plant proposal.
President Tokayev acknowledges this historical baggage, urging citizens to move forward and embrace optimism. “One should not always look back, remember the bad things, and complain,” he said. “(We must) only move forward and be optimistic, otherwise we will lose in this global race to progress.” This sentiment reflects the government’s perspective of navigating the country’s past while striving for future advancement. The referendum, however, will ultimately determine if Kazakhstan embraces nuclear power, a decision laden with historical baggage, environmental concerns, and geopolitical complexities.
