Construction of the second phase of the Kola Nuclear Power Plant may be halted, Russian Atomic Energy Minister Yevgeny Adamov told a meeting in Murmansk between the Transport and Atomic Ministries. He confirmed that alternative means of developing the energy sector in the region were being considered, in particular hydro electricity and the use of Yamal gas.
“All avenues should be explored to find the most economically expedient option,” the minister said.
However, MINATOM plans to increase resources for the existing Kola reactors and will consider installation of new PN-640 reactors at the station, Adamov said. The Kola station, with four VVER-440 reactors, supplies 70% of regional energy needs. MINATOM plans to upgrade these units to extend their life-span. This is expected to cost around R1.2 billion ($176 million).
