In 2024, Russia’s Rostov NPP near Volgodonsk underwent major upgrades of equipment at all four VVER-1000 reactor units. The most extensive work was performed at unit 1 as part of a life extension programme.
Construction of Rostov 1 began in 1977 and operations began in 2001. Construction unit 2 began in 1983 and was completed in 2010. Unit 3 was connected to the grid in 2015and unit 4 began commercial operation in 2018[
Upgrading work undertaken at unit 1 included the safety control system in terms of technological parameters, continuous power supply equipment, the DC switchboard, and the electric motors of pumping units. Reinforced ropes of the containment shell, neutron flux monitoring equipment, fittings for process water systems and air coolers for containment zone ventilation systems were replaced.
The operating licence for unit 1 expires in 2030. After completion of the modernisation, its service life will be extended for another 30 years. “The modernisation of the first power unit in 2024 saw a large-scale project to extend its service life for another 30 years. The document has been approved by the Rosatom State Corporation and is valid until 2029,” said Rostov NPP DirectorAndrey Salnikov.
