Mikhadyuk: Nuclear energy is cost competitive and eco-friendly

The prime cost of nuclear energy is lower as compared with other forms of electricity generation, Belarus’ Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk said in an interview to Russia 24 TV Channel in Moscow on 1 June, spokesperson for the Energy Ministry Zhanna Zenkevich told BelTA.

“Nuclear power is cost competitive as compared with other forms of electricity generation. Belarus has already done a lot to enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of power generation at the country’s CHP plants. On top of that, a nuclear power plant is a more eco-friendly facility. We expect that the commissioning of the Belarusian NPP will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7-10 million tonnes per year,” Mikhail Mikhadyuk stressed.

According to Mikhail Mikhadyuk, nuclear power industry gives a powerful impetus to the development of the country’s energy, economic, industry, business and other sectors.

“The nuclear power plant will, first of all, help diversify the types of fuels used in Belarus to produce heat and electrical energy. Belarus has no big reserves of energy resources. Today they account for about 18% of the total volume. The rest is covered by the import of natural gas that makes up nearly 95-96% in the fuel consumption mix. The new nuclear power plant will replace about 5 billion cubic meters of gas on an annual basis,” he added.

The Belarusian delegation led by Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk is taking part in the 7th international forum Atomexpo 2015 in Moscow.