2024 Kazakh nuclear power referendum

Republican referendum in Kazakhstan

6 October 2024 (2024-10-06)
Do you agree with the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan?[1]
Results by region
Politics of Kazakhstan

Commonwealth of Independent States CIS member state

  • v
  • t
  • e

A referendum on the construction of the first nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan is planned to take place on 6 October 2024.[2] This initiative is aimed to reduce fossil fuel reliance, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and bolster national electricity generation in light of frequent power outages in recent years.[3][4][5] President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev first proposed the idea of holding a referendum in 2019,[6] and in September 2023, he officially announced that the referendum would take place to address the nation's need to develop nuclear power, leveraging Kazakhstan's status as the world's largest uranium producer.[7][8] In June 2024, President Tokayev announced that the referendum would be held in autumn, with the specific date determined by the Government.[9]

If the majority of voters support the initiative, a nuclear power plant will be built in the village of Ülken, near Lake Balkhash. President Tokayev has described this initiative as essential for establishing a stable electricity source in the country. However, local ecologists and residents view the proposal as potentially dangerous, citing concerns over the already unstable water levels in Lake Balkhash.[9] Additionally, political activists criticize the possibility of Russia being selected as the builder of the plant, adding to local apprehensions.[10]

Background

Since gaining independence, Kazakhstan has repeatedly considered constructing a nuclear power plant. The need for such a facility was first publicly expressed in 1997 by then-Minister of Science Vladimir Shkolnik. The idea of building a new plant gained momentum in the late 1990s, after the decommissioning of the Soviet-era BN-350 reactor at the Mangyshlak Atomic Energy Combine [kk; ru] (MAEK) in the city of Aqtau, which had provided electricity, desalinated water from the Caspian Sea, and weapons-grade plutonium for Soviet nuclear weapons. The MAEK was shut down in 1999 due to concerns over aging infrastructure and nuclear proliferation risks, especially after Kazakhstan ratified the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1994.[11] The decommissioning was supported by international partners, particularly the International Atomic Energy Agency and the United States Department of Energy.[12]

Over the years, Kazakhstan has repeatedly revisited the idea of building a new nuclear power plant, with several proposed locations, including the city of Kurchatov, the village of Ülken on the shores of Lake Balkhash, or the site of the former MAEK plant in Aqtau.[13][14] Government efforts, including international cooperation with Russia, France, Japan, and South Korea to conduct feasibility studies, have been made to support each proposal for nuclear plant projects.[15] However, these nuclear energy proposals have faced significant opposition, emerging amidst controversy fueled by Kazakhstan's history of environmental and public health issues due to Soviet nuclear weapon testing at Semipalatinsk-21, as well as broader fears stemming from the Chernobyl disaster and the Fukushima nuclear accident.[16][17] Additionally, concerns over Russian involvement have been heightened due to risks related to environmental safety and geopolitical interests.[18][19] Development projects have repeatedly faced delays or cancellations due to indecision among key figures and attempts to negotiate lower prices.[15] Since 2014, Kazakhstan has signed separate memorandum agreements with Russia and Japan regarding the construction of a nuclear power plant, with construction initially scheduled to begin in 2018.[20][21] However, in 2015, the project was indefinitely postponed due to an electricity surplus and economic uncertainty.[22] By 2016, it was revealed that the nuclear power plant construction would be delayed until 2023, as no electricity shortage was expected during the seven-year period.[23][24]

In April 2019, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan using Russian technologies,[25] sparking renewed discussions about nuclear energy development.[26][27] This proposal faced scrutiny among Kazakh society, becoming a widescale issue during the 2018–2020 Kazakh protests.[28] In response to the controversy, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized that decisions regarding the potential construction of a nuclear power plant could not be made without considering public opinion.[29] Shortly after his election as president in June 2019, Tokayev acknowledged that discussions about the project were ongoing, underscoring that public consultations with citizens would be held if necessary, and indicating that a referendum could also be conducted regarding the initiative.[30] Kanat Bozumbayev, the Minister of Energy, confirmed that building a nuclear power plant was not in the ministry's immediate plans but might be considered within the next decade.[31]

In May 2021, Tokayev stated it was premature to dismiss nuclear energy in Kazakhstan, emphasizing its reliance in the developed world, and while the government wouldn't rush construction, it shouldn't delay either, highlighting the need for ongoing communication with citizens to address their concerns. In June 2021, Energy Minister Nurlan Nogaev reaffirmed President Tokayev's commitment to gauging public opinion on nuclear energy.[32] He identified Ülken and Kurchatov as potential sites for a future nuclear power plant.[33][34] By September 2021, at the Eastern Economic Forum, Tokayev emphasized the need to move forward, stating that it was time to "substantively consider" the issue.[35][36][37] In June 2022, the village of Ülken was officially selected as the site for the plant after extensive evaluations.[38][39]

Energy crisis

Kazakhstan’s ongoing energy crisis, part of a broader regional issue affecting Central Asia, was exacerbated in 2021 by a sudden surge in cryptocurrency mining following an influx of miners from China, leading to significant electricity shortages, power outages, and a reliance on imported power.[40][41] In response to these challenges, President Tokayev described the situation as revealing "the first signs of electricity shortages" and did not rule out the possibility of making "inherently unpopular decisions" regarding the construction of a nuclear power plant.[42][43][44] There have been suggestions to build two or three nuclear power plants with six 1.2 GWe units across Kazakhstan's Northern, Southern, and Western energy zones to address the growing nationwide energy deficit, balance regional needs, and support desalination.[45] Energy expert Petr Svoik warns that Kazakhstan faces challenges similar to its neighbors, including underfunded infrastructure and the need for new capacity. By the 2030s, Kazakhstan will require an additional 4,000 megawatts of power, which these plants could help provide while boosting infrastructure and the economy.[46]

In 2023, the KEGOC reported that the electricity consumption increased by 1.9% to 115.06 billion kWh, while generation stagnated at 112.82 billion kWh, resulting in a 1,519 MW deficit covered by imports from Russia.[47][48] This deficit is projected to grow to 6.2 GWe by 2030.[48] Independent expert Jaqyp Hayrushev suggests that a nuclear plant could have met the current shortfall of 1.5 GWe, similar to the consumption of regional centers like Oral.[49] With demand expected to reach 152.4 billion kWh by 2035, while aging thermal plants can only produce 135 billion kWh, the Kazakh government views nuclear energy as a viable long-term solution, supported by the country's significant uranium reserves, scientific expertise, and skilled specialists.[50][51]

Carbon neutrality

In 2012, then-President Nursultan Nazarbayev launched the Kazakhstan-2050 Strategy, aiming to position Kazakhstan among the top 30 most developed nations by 2050, with a focus on transitioning to a low-carbon economy.[52] This strategy laid the groundwork for Kazakhstan's commitment to sustainable energy, including the concept adoption for green economy in 2013, which set ambitious targets for the power sector to achieve 50% alternative and renewable energy by 2050, along with plans to integrate 1.5 GWe of nuclear energy by 2030 and 2.0 GWe by 2050.[53][54] In 2016, Kazakhstan further solidified its commitment to these goals by signing the Paris Agreement, pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward sustainable energy practices.[55]

At the Climate Ambition Summit 2020, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060,[56] emphasizing nuclear power's role as a low-carbon source.[57] To diversify its energy development and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, Tokayev urged the government and Samruk-Kazyna to explore "safe and environmentally friendly" nuclear energy options, positioning them as a viable solution for national energy demands and international climate obligations.[58]

While nuclear power has the potential to significantly reduce air pollution and environmental degradation compared to fossil fuels,[59] concerns regarding radioactive waste management present critical challenges for safe implementation.[60] By integrating nuclear power into its energy strategy, Kazakhstan aims to lower its carbon footprint, enhance energy security, and contribute to global climate change efforts, aligning its green policies with the broader goals of the Paris Agreement.[61][62]

Prelude

Speculations about holding a referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant arose after President Tokayev's 2019 proposal, as the government continued moving forward with the project.[63] Political scientist Dimaş Äljanov expressed skepticism about the fairness of a potential referendum on the nuclear power plant, arguing that without proper mechanisms, the voting results could be falsified in favor of the Kazakh government's interests, especially given the general public's negative sentiment toward the authorities.[64]

In April 2023, Energy Minister Almasadam Sätqaliev, responding to journalists' inquiries about the possibility of a referendum, cited the need for one to gauge majority support for the project, asserting that if the majority votes against the proposal, the plant will not be built.[65] However, in June 2023, Vice Minister of Energy Jandos Nurmaganbetov ruled out the possibility of a referendum on the construction of the nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan.[66][67]

On 1 September 2023, President Tokayev announced during his State of the Nation Address that a nationwide referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant will take place, with specific voting date to be determined later, highlighting its significance for Kazakhstan's future as the largest uranium producer in the world.[68] The Ministry of Energy stated that it, along with other government agencies, parliamentary deputies, industry experts, and public activists, will work out the details of the referendum and provide the public with comprehensive information. Energy Minister Almasadam Sätqaliev added that the referendum aims to encourage Kazakhstanis to express their views on the need for technological development, while the government will provide solutions that align with societal needs.[69][70] Vice Minister of Energy Nurmaganbetov stated that the decision will be up to Tokayev.[71] At the XV Kazenergy Eurasian Forum in October 2023, Energy Minister Almasadam Sätqaliev discussed plans for a referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant, stating that the Ministry of Energy is ready to provide expert support and analytics as required by the constitutional law.[72][73][74]

Referendum announcement

On 27 June 2024, at a speech during an awarding ceremony, President Tokayev announced, that the referendum will take place in the autumn of 2024. In the building of the Senate, Deputy Minister of Energy Sūñğat Esimhanov talked about the questions that will be asked on the referendum. According to him, the people will be asked only one thing, whether they support or are against the building of a nuclear power plant. However he also noted that this was "his opinion" and the details will be worked out by the Government.[75]

During his annual Address to the People, Tokayev announced on September 2 that the referendum will be held on October 6.[2]

The next day, he signed the corresponding order, which also included the ballot question itself:

Do you agree with the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan?[a]

Negotiations with energy providers

The Ministry of Energy reviewed reactor technologies from various international companies before compiling a shortlist in June 2022.[78][79] After evaluating 13 reactor designs from six companies—NuScale Power, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH), Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), Russian Rosatom, and French Électricité de France (EDF)—the ministry selected KHNP, CNNC, Rosatom, and EDF as potential suppliers.[80][81] The American and Japanese companies, NuScale Power and GEH, were excluded due to their limited experience with low-power reactors, with focus instead being on suppliers with proven high-power reactor technologies.[82]

The Kazakh government explored international practices in nuclear power plant construction by examining the experiences of countries with operational facilities. The Kazakh delegation toured nuclear power plants in South Korea, signed a memorandum of understanding with KHNP,[83][84] and sent specialists to France to study their facilities.[85] They also toured the Rosatom's commissioning of Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant in Turkey and the Paks Nuclear Power Plant in Hungary,[86][87][88][89] hosted by General Electric.[81][90]

In August 2022, Energy Minister Bolat Aqşolaqov announced that the technology operator for Kazakhstan's nuclear power plant would be selected by late 2022 or early 2023.[91][92] In February 2023, it was revealed that the decision would be made sometime later that year.[93][94] Samruk-Kazyna chairman Nurlan Jaqypov did not rule out Rosatom's strong chances of winning the bid while also expressing concerns about various difficulties in implementing the project.[95] However, European Union discussions on potential sanctions against Russia's nuclear industry complicated Kazakhstan's plans to cooperate with Rosatom,[96] leading to delays in selecting a foreign partner.[97] In August 2023, the Ministry of Energy compiled a shortlist of potential reactor technologies, which included the CNNC's HPR-1000 reactor, the KHNP's APR-1400 reactor, Rosatom's VVER-1200 and VVER-1000 reactors, and EDF's EPR-1200 reactor.[98][99][100]

The people that would help with the construction are yet undecided. It is speculated, however, that Russian, South Korean or French companies would be in charge. The companies CNNC (China), Rosatom, KHNP and the EDF were specifically mentioned to be candidates.[75] The possibility of the nuclear power plant being built by Russia was frowned upon and criticised by political activists, who feared the increase of Russia's political and economic influence in the country.[10]

Public hearings

The Kazakh government engaged in public deliberations regarding the proposed construction of the Ülken Nuclear Power Plant, emphasizing careful consideration over haste in making their decision.[101]

In August 2024, 20 different official hearings on the potential nuclear power plant were held publicly in 20 different cities.[b] The last one, held in Astana, took place on 20 August. Radio Free Europe criticised the environment of the hearings, reporting that opposition voices were silenced, with microphones turned off, and dissenters barred from participating.[103] The official hearing event in Astana was attended by Mäjilis deputies and Amanat party officials, who expressed support for the nuclear plant construction.[103] Prominent ecologist, Mels Eleusizov, opposed the idea citing danger risks.[104] Political activist Nağyzhan Töleubaev and other like-minded people complained that the talks were biased and undemocratic.[103][104] Before the Semey talks, a local activist and reporter Eldos Dosanov was detained by the police.[105]

Conduct

Elections in Kazakhstan are organized by various election commissions, with the Central Election Commission (CEC) serving as the Central Referendum Commission.[106]

Following President Tokayev's referendum announcement, CEC member Şavkat Ötemisov announced in September 2023 that the CEC was ready to conduct the referendum that year if the date was announced, confirming that all necessary preparations were in place.[107][108][109][110][111]

Opinion polls

As of September 2024, only two opinion polls on the issue are known to have been made. One of them, made by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation was conducted in the autumn of 2023, and the other one was made by the government-affiliated Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS) under the President of Kazakhstan.

Fieldwork
date 		Polling firm/Commissioner Sample size Yes No Undecided Would not vote Lead
7–18 Aug 2024 KazISS/President of the Republic of Kazakhstan[112] 1,200 53.1% 32.5% 14.4% 34.2% 20.6%
22 Sep–4 Oct 2023 Demoscope/Konrad Adenauer Foundation[113] 1,100 46.6% 37.7% 18.8% 19.8% 8.9%

In August 27, 2024, Minister of Energetics of Kazakhstan, Almasadam Sätqaliev alleged that there was an unspecified group and political campaign trying to change the public opinion on the issue to be against the construction. When asked for specifics, Sätqaliev claimed that the ministry already contacted the corresponding law enforcement agencies, and is planning to file an official complaint.[114]

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Kazakh: «Сіз Қазақстанда атом электр станциясын салуға келісесіз бе?», romanized: «Siz Qazaqstanda atom elektr stantsiasyn saluğa kelısesız be?»[76]
    Russian: «Согласны ли Вы со строительством атомной электростанции в Казахстане?», romanized: «Soglasny li Vy so stroitel'stvom atomnoy elektrostantsii v Kazakhstane?»[77]
  2. ^ The cities include: Almaty, Karagandy, Turkistan, Shymkent, Aktobe, Atyrau, Aktau, Oral, Oskemen, Semey and Taldykorgan,[10] representing each region of the country.[102]

References

  1. ^ "АЭС бойынша референдумда қойылатын сұрақ анықталды" [The question that is to be asked on the nuclear power plant referendum was revealed]. Radio Free Europe (in Kazakh). 3 September 2024. Retrieved 3 September 2024.
  2. ^ a b "Референдум по АЭС в Казахстане состоится 6 октября 2024 года — Токаев" [Tokayev: The referendum on the nuclear power plant will be held on 6 October]. Radio Free Europe (in Russian). 2 September 2024. Retrieved 2 September 2024.
  3. ^ Satubaldina, Assel (1 September 2023). "Kazakhstan to Hold Referendum on Nuclear Power Plant Construction". The Astana Times. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  4. ^ Konurbaeva, Aigerim (27 January 2022). "Blackout in Central Asia. Countries Need to Expand Power Capacity". CABAR.asia. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  5. ^ "Kazakhstan dispatch: President Tokayev announces nuclear power plant proposal will be decided in a national referendum". JURIST. 5 September 2023. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  6. ^ Kozhanova, Nazira (1 October 2021). "Nuclear Energy in Kazakhstan? The Problem of Accountability". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  7. ^ "Kazakhstan to hold referendum on nuclear plant construction". Nikkei Asia. 1 September 2023. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  8. ^ "Kazakhstan to hold referendum on first nuclear plant". www.euractiv.com. 1 September 2023. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  9. ^ a b "Тоқаев: АЭС бойынша референдум биыл күзде өтеді" [Tokayev: The referendum on the nuclear power plant will be held this autumn]. Radio Free Europe (in Kazakh). 27 June 2024. Retrieved 27 June 2024.
  10. ^ a b c "АЭС жобасы бойынша соңғы талқы Астанада өтеді" [The last public nuclear power plant talks will be held in Astana] (in Kazakh). Radio Free Europe. 19 August 2024. Retrieved 21 August 2024.
  11. ^ Pearce, Jim, ed. (Fall 2011). "The Sum of All Fears: ORNL plays a role in securing nuclear materials in Kazakhstan" (PDF). Oak Ridge National Laboratory. ORNL Review. Vol. 44, no. 1. pp. 10–12. ISSN 0048-1262. Retrieved 26 August 2024.
  12. ^ Newton, David E.; Connery, Joyce; Wells, Peter (2002). Written at Germantown, Maryland. U.S. Experience in the Decommissioning of the BN-350 Fast Breeder Reactor in Kazakhstan, (PDF). International Conference on Safe Decommissioning for Nuclear Activities: Assuring the Safe Termination of Practices Involving Radioactive Materials (PDF). Berlin: US Department of Energy. pp. 278–280. XA 0202915. Retrieved 26 August 2024 – via International Atomic Energy Agency.
  13. ^ "Kazakhstan: Russia Offers To Build Nuclear Plant". Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. 20 November 1997. Retrieved 26 August 2024.
  14. ^ Saidazimova, Gulnoza (24 February 2006). "Government Pushing Nuclear Power Despite Public Fears". Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Retrieved 26 August 2024.
  15. ^ a b Алхабаев, Шокан (8 September 2021). ""Вновь заговорили об АЭС". Как возрождается атомная энергетика Казахстана" ["Started talking about a nuclear power plant once again": How Kazakh nuclear energy comes back to life]. Tengrinews.kz (in Russian). Retrieved 26 August 2024.
  16. ^ Козыбаева, Зарина (28 April 2011). Бушуев, Михаил (ed.). "Стоит ли Казахстану строить первую в Центральной Азии АЭС?" [Is it worth it for Kazakhstan to be first in nuclear power plant construction?]. Deutsche Welle (in Russian). Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  17. ^ Altynbayev, Kanat (26 February 2021). "Moscow tries to foist nuclear power plant on Kazakhstan, again". Caravanserai. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  18. ^ Altynbayev, Kanat (26 February 2021). "Moscow tries to foist nuclear power plant on Kazakhstan, again". Caravanserai. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  19. ^ "Kazakhstan's nuclear power plans - the mysteries only deepen". theecologist.org. 19 August 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  20. ^ "Қазақстанда АЭС құрылысы 2018 жылы басталады" [Nuclear power plant construction in Kazakhstan to start in 2018]. Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). 4 June 2014. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  21. ^ "Жапония Қазақстанға АЭС салуға көмектеспек" [Japan to help Kazakhstan to build a nuclear power plant]. Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 27 October 2015. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  22. ^ "Министр Школьник: Қазақстан АЭС-ке әзір мұқтаж емес" [Minister Shkolnik: Kazakhstan not really in need of a nuclear power plant for now]. Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 11 December 2015. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  23. ^ "Бозымбаев: Алдағы 7 жылда Қазақстанда АЭС салынбайды" [Bozumbayev: A nuclear power plant will not be built in Kazakhstan the next 7 years]. Kazinform (in Kazakh). 2 November 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  24. ^ "ҚР ЭМ: алдағы 7 жылда АЭС салу мәселесі өзекті болмайды" [Kazakh Energy Ministry: the nuclear power plant construction not to be relevant in the next 7 years]. inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). 2 November 2016. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  25. ^ "Путин: Қазақстанда АЭС құрылысын талқылауды ұсынамыз" [Putin: We propose to discuss nuclear power plant construction in Kazakhstan]. Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 4 April 2019. Retrieved 29 August 2024.
  26. ^ Әбдіғаниұлы, Нұргелді (4 April 2019). "Ресейдің АЭС-і Жамбыл ауданының Үлкен ауылы маңына салынады" [Russian nuclear power plant to be built in Ülken, Jambyl District]. Abai.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 29 August 2024.
  27. ^ "Атом электр станциясы қауіп пе - Ғалымдар не дейді" [Is there a danger with the nuclear power plant construction: Here's what scientists say]. Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). 6 April 2019. Retrieved 29 August 2024.
  28. ^ "Жүздеген адам наразылыққа шықты" [Hundreds are protesting]. Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 1 May 2019. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  29. ^ "Қазақстандағы электр энергиясының тапшылығы мәселесін қазір шешуіміз керек - Тоқаев" [Tokayev: We need to solve the energy shortage of Kazakhstan]. KazTAG (in Kazakh). 26 April 2019. Retrieved 29 August 2024.
  30. ^ "Тоқаев АЭС құрылысына қатысты: Тіпті қажет болса референдум өткіземіз" [Tokayev on the nuclear power plant construction: We may even hold a referendum if needed]. Kazinform (in Kazakh). 10 June 2019. Retrieved 29 August 2024.
  31. ^ "Қанат Бозымбаев:"Жаңа АЭС – бұл тек қауесет"" [Qanat Bozymbaev: "A new nuclear power plant is just a rumor"]. inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). 20 June 2019. Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  32. ^ Сатиева, Камшат (30 June 2021). "Ноғаев АЭС құрылысы туралы: Шешім әлі қабылданған жоқ..." [Nogaev on nuclear power plant construction: A decision was not yet made...]. zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 31 August 2024.
  33. ^ Дарибаева, Айнура (30 June 2021). "Қазақстанда екі атом электр станциясы салынады". Orda.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  34. ^ Асылбек, Бағдат (1 July 2021). "Билік халықтың АЭС жөнінде пікірін сұрайды, "түсіндіру жұмыстарына" блогерлер тартылуы мүмкін". Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  35. ^ Дарибаева, Айнура (3 September 2021). "Тоқаев Қазақстанға АЭС қажет екенін айтты". Orda.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  36. ^ Жамбылұлы, Шерхан (3 September 2021). "Мемлекет басшысы VI Шығыс экономикалық форумына қатысты". Qazaqstan (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  37. ^ Шарипханова, Дина (3 September 2021). "Қазақстанға атом станциясы қажет - Тоқаев". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  38. ^ Тоғанбек, Аяна (9 June 2022). "Алматы облысында атом электр стансасы салынады". Egemen Qazaqstan (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  39. ^ Сатиева, Камшат (10 June 2022). "АЭС салынуы ықтимал Үлкен ауылы туралы не білеміз". zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  40. ^ Bartlett, Paul (24 November 2021). "Crypto influx from China pushes Kazakhstan toward nuclear power". Nikkei Asia. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  41. ^ "Power gradually restored after massive blackout in three Central Asia's nations". asiaplustj.info. 26 January 2022. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  42. ^ Олжаев, Айдын (19 November 2021). "АЭС-ке қатысты нақты шешім қабылдауымыз керек — Тоқаев". zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  43. ^ Шарипханова, Дина (19 November 2021). "Тоқаев: АЭС құрылысы туралы шешім шығаруымызға тура келеді". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  44. ^ "Қасым-Жомарт Тоқаев Қазақстанның болашағын АЭС-пен байланыстырды". Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 19 November 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  45. ^ Урманов, Адил (24 July 2023). "Казахстану нужны две, а лучше сразу три АЭС - эксперт". Caravan.kz (in Russian). Kazakhstan Today. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  46. ^ "Expert Meeting: Nuclear Power as a Solution to the Energy Crisis in Central Asia?". Central Asian Bureau for Analytical Reporting (CABAR). Institute for War and Peace Reporting. 18 November 2021. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  47. ^ Жұмаділлә, Балнұр (6 March 2024). "Қазақстан бірыңғай уақыт белдеуіне көшкеннен кейін электр энергиясын тұтыну қаншалық артты?" [How much did energy consumption increase since the Kazakh timezone change?]. Massaget.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  48. ^ a b "KEGOC ҚР Энергетика министрлігінің алқалы отырысында 2023 жылғы жұмысы туралы есеп берді" [KEGOC reported on its 2023 progress during a Kazakh Energy Ministry meeting] (Press release) (in Kazakh). KEGOC. 5 March 2024. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  49. ^ Скибан, Оксана (3 August 2023). "Строительство АЭС в Казахстане: есть ли угрозы и каковы плюсы" [The nuclear power plant construction in Kazakhstan: Are there dangers, and what are the advantages?]. zakon.kz (in Russian). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  50. ^ Нуруллин, Эльдар (8 January 2024). "Без АЭС не обойтись? Готов ли Казахстан к масштабному строительству" [Do we really have to have a nuclear power plant? Is Kazakhstan ready for such a massive construction?]. Tengrinews.kz (in Russian). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  51. ^ Shuriev, Telman (5 August 2024). "Atomic power: How Kazakhstan will overcome the energy crisis". News.az. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  52. ^ Nazarbayev, Nursultan (14 December 2012). Address by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Leader of the Nation, N.Nazarbayev "Strategy Kazakhstan-2050": new political course of the established state” (Speech). State of the Nation Address. Astana.
  53. ^ ""Қазақстан Республикасының "жасыл" экономикаға көшуі жөніндегі тұжырымдама туралы" Қазақстан Республикасының Президенті Жарлығының жобасы туралы". adilet.zan.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  54. ^ "«Қазақстан Республикасының «жасыл экономикаға» көшуі жөніндегі тұжырымдама туралы» Мемлекет басшысының Жарлығы бекітілді". Kazinform (in Kazakh). 1 June 2013. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  55. ^ "Carbon neutrality". QazaqGreen. Konrad Adenauer Foundation. 6 June 2023. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  56. ^ "Қазақстан 2060 жылға қарай көміртегінен таза ел болуға қол жеткізуге ниетті – Президент" [President: Kazakhstan determined to be a country free of carbon emissions by 2060]. inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). 25 May 2021. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  57. ^ Сатиева, Камшат (26 May 2021). "Тоқаевтың атом энергетикасы туралы сөзі: Бұл ретте үрейге бой алдыру орынсыз" [Tokayev on nuclear energy: It is unneccesary to fear this]. zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  58. ^ "Kazakhstan banks on nuclear energy for transition to low-carbon future". European Scientist. 3 September 2021. Archived from the original on 3 September 2021. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  59. ^ Мырзахмет, Нұрсұлу (23 September 2021). "Қазақстанға АЭС керек пе?" [Does Kazakhstan need a nuclear power plant?]. Jas Alash (in Kazakh). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  60. ^ Сатубалдина, Асель (24 January 2024). "One year later: unveiling progress of Kazakhstan's carbon neutrality strategy". Kazinform. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  61. ^ Қазақбекова, Сабина (1 July 2023). "Қазақстан 2030 жылға қарай жаңартылатын энергия көздерінің үлесін 15% жеткізеді" [Kazakhstan to have a 15% increase of the output of renewable energy sources by 2030]. Kursiv Media Kazakhstan (in Kazakh). Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  62. ^ "Қазақстан 2030 жылға қарай энергия теңгеріміндегі жаңартылатын энергия көздерінің үлесін 15%-ға дейін арттыруды жоспарлап отыр" [Kazakhstan plans a 15% renewable energy increase in the energy balance by 2030]. www.kt.kz (in Kazakh). 1 July 2023. Retrieved 27 August 2024.
  63. ^ "АЭС в Казахстане: за и против / "Своими словами"". inbusiness.kz (in Russian). 10 September 2021. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  64. ^ "АЭС в Казахстане: о выгодах и рисках". cso-central.asia (in Russian). Civil Society Development Association ARGO. 29 October 2021. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  65. ^ Шарипханова, Дина (11 April 2023). "Халық қарсы болса, АЭС салынбайды - жаңа энергетика министрі". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  66. ^ "Қазақстанда АЭС салу бойынша референдум болмайды - энергетика вице-министрі". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). 15 June 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  67. ^ "Елде АЭС салу үшін референдум өткізіле ме?". BAQ.kz (in Kazakh). Qazcontent. 15 June 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  68. ^ "Атом электр стансасын салу мәселесін жалпыұлттық референдум арқылы шешкен жөн – Президент". Kazinform (in Kazakh). 1 September 2023. Retrieved 12 September 2024.
  69. ^ Ермекқызы, Айзат (1 September 2023). "Энергетика министрлігі АЭС салу бойынша референдум өткізуге дайындық жасайды". NUR.KZ (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  70. ^ Бакелекова, Умитжан (1 September 2023). "Халықтың дауыс беруіне шығарылатын мәселенің тұжырымдамасы анықталуы керек - Энергетика министрлігі". Kursiv Media Казахстан (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  71. ^ Есмағамбетов, Рамазан (19 September 2023). ""Президент жарлығын күтудеміз": министрлік АЭС салу бойынша референдум қашан өтуі мүмкін екенін хабарлады". NUR.KZ (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  72. ^ Бақберген, Ботакөз (4 October 2023). "АЭС бойынша барлық шешімдер референдум нәтижесіне қарай қабылданады - министр". Egemen Qazaqstan (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  73. ^ Тарина, Айгерим (4 October 2023). "Қазақстанда атом электр станциясының қандай нұсқалары қарастырылуда". zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  74. ^ "АЭС салу референдум нәтижесіне қарай шешіледі – министр". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. 4 October 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  75. ^ a b Төленді, Ақниет (27 June 2024). "Тоқаев атом электр станциясын салу бойынша референдум күзде өтетінін айтты" [Tokayev announced that the nuclear power plant referendum will be held this autumn]. kz.kursiv.media (in Kazakh). Retrieved 27 June 2024.
  76. ^ "2024 жылғы 6 қазанда республикалық референдум өткiзу туралы". Akorda.kz (in Kazakh). 2 September 2024. Retrieved 3 September 2024.
  77. ^ "О проведении 6 октября 2024 года республиканского референдума". Akorda.kz (in Russian). 2 September 2024. Retrieved 3 September 2024.
  78. ^ Сайлауқызы, Раушан (23 February 2022). "Атом электр станциясын салу үшін 6 елдің технологиясы зерттеліп жатыр (толығырақ)". Qazaqstan (in Kazakh). Qazaqstan Radio and Television Corporation. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  79. ^ "Қазақстан АЭС салуы ықтимал елдердің тізімінен АҚШ пен Жапонияны алып тастады". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. 29 June 2022. Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  80. ^ Шарипханова, Дина (27 June 2022). "Қазақстан АЭС салуы мүмкін мердігерлер тізімін жасады". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  81. ^ a b "Атом энергетикасы: Қазақстандағы болашағы қандай?". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. 27 October 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  82. ^ "Қазақстан АЭС салуы ықтимал елдердің тізімінен АҚШ пен Жапонияны алып тастады". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. 29 June 2022. Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  83. ^ "Қазақстан мен Оңтүстік Корея атом энергетикасы саласында ынтымақтасатын болады". Kazakhstan Today (in Kazakh). 28 June 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  84. ^ "Қазақстан мен Оңтүстік Корея атом энергиясын дамыту саласындағы стратегиялық серіктестікті нығайтуда". Central Communications Service under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan (in Kazakh). 29 June 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  85. ^ "Kazakhstan to Study the Experience of France in the Development of Nuclear Energy and Operation of Nuclear Power Plants" (Press release). Samruk-Kazyna. 21 July 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  86. ^ "Қазақстан делегациясы Түркияда салынып жатқан "Аккую" АЭС-те болды, оның бірінші блогы 2023 жылы іске қосылады". Central Communications Service under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan (in Kazakh). 5 August 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  87. ^ "Қазақстан делегациясы Түркиядағы «Аккую» атом электр станциясының құрылысымен танысты". Jibek Joly TV (in Kazakh). 24 August 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  88. ^ "Қазақстандық делегация «Пакш» атом электр станциясында болды". Forbes.kz (in Kazakh). 29 January 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  89. ^ "Қазақстандық делегация "Пакш" атом электр станциясында болды". DKnews.kz (in Kazakh). 29 January 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  90. ^ Аймағамбет, Абай (8 November 2022). "АЭС: Әлемдік және өңірлік тәжірибе". Egemen Qazaqstan (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  91. ^ "2023 жылы АЭС-ті қай мемлекет салатыны анықталады – Энергетика министрі". BAQ.kz (in Kazakh). Qazcontent. 3 August 2022. Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  92. ^ Ерболат, Дәурен (3 August 2022). "2023 жылы АЭС-ті қай мемлекет салатыны белгілі болады – министр". Halyq-uni.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  93. ^ Сатиева, Камшат (1 February 2023). "Энергетика министрлігі АЭС құрылысы мәселесіне келгенде асығыстық танытпауға уәде берді". zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  94. ^ Әділбеков, Ақжігіт (2 February 2023). "Қазақстанға АЭС-ті кім салады?". Kursiv Media Казахстан (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  95. ^ Мамышев, Жанболат (13 July 2023). "Глава «Самрук-Казыны» рассказал о сложностях со строительством АЭС, не исключив победы «Росатома» в конкурсе". Kursiv Media Казахстан (in Russian). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  96. ^ Ардақ, Жанат (28 June 2023). "Еуроодақтың жаңа санкциялық пакеті Қазақстанды шектеуге бағытталмақ". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  97. ^ Мамышев, Жанболат (1 September 2023). "Токаев предложил вынести решение по строительству АЭС в Казахстане на референдум". Kursiv Media Казахстан (in Russian). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  98. ^ Шарипханова, Дина (17 August 2023). "Қазақстанда атом электр станциясы қай жерде салынады?". Tengrinews.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  99. ^ Тоғжан, Аманалина (17 August 2023). "Энергетика министрлігінде атом электр станциясының құрылысы үшін ең қолайлы аудан аталды". Azattyq-ruhy.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  100. ^ Сатыбалдина, Сымбат (17 August 2023). "Атом электр станциясы қайда салынатыны белгілі болды". Massaget.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 14 September 2024.
  101. ^ Abbasova, Vusala (5 September 2021). "President Tokayev Says Kazakhstan Needs Nuclear Power Plant". caspiannews.com. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
  102. ^ "В Астане начались финальные обсуждения по вопросу строительства АЭС в Казахстане" [Final talks on the building of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan have began in Astana] (in Russian). Astana City Mäslihat. 20 August 2024. Retrieved 21 August 2024.
  103. ^ a b c Мұхитқызы, Әсемгүл (20 August 2024). "Астанада АЭС бойынша жария талқы өтті" [The nuclear power plant public talks were held in Astana] (in Kazakh). Radio Free Europe. Retrieved 21 August 2024.
  104. ^ a b Узбекбай, Ақбота; Қайсар, Алмас (16 August 2024). ""Это не публичные обсуждения, а реклама АЭС!"" ["These are not public talks, these are nuclear power plant advertisement campaigns!"]. vlast.kz (in Russian). Retrieved 21 August 2024.
  105. ^ Тапаева, Нұргүл; Ақаева, Хадиша; Ақсейітов, Кенжетай (8 August 2024). "АЭС-ке наразы белсенді ұсталды, көпшілік қолдады. Семейдегі жария талқы" [An activist opposing the nuclear power plant was detained, the majority approved. The Semey public talks] (in Kazakh). Radio Free Europe. Retrieved 21 August 2024.
  106. ^ President of the Republic of Kazakhstan (2 November 1995). On the Republican Referendum. Bulletin of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Constitutional Law N 2592). Almaty: Institute of Legislation and Legal Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. § 20. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  107. ^ Тақабаева, Аида (6 September 2023). "ОСК Қазақстанда АЭС салу бойынша референдум өткізуге дайын". zakon.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  108. ^ Қазақбекова, Сабина (6 September 2023). "АЭС құрылысы бойынша референдум өткізуге дайынбыз - ОСК". Kursiv Media Казахстан (in Kazakh). Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  109. ^ "Қазақстан билігі АЭС салу бойынша референдумды 2023 жылы өткізуге дайын". Азаттық радиосы (in Kazakh). 6 September 2023. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  110. ^ "ОСК Қазақстанда АЭС салу бойынша референдум өткізуге дайын". Kazakhstan Today (in Kazakh). 6 September 2024. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  111. ^ Смаилова, Балжан (6 September 2023). "ОСК АЭС құрылысы бойынша референдум өткізуге дайын екенін мәлімдеді". inbusiness.kz (in Kazakh). Atameken Business. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
  112. ^ "Халық АЭС салу идеясына қалай қарайды – әлеуметтік сауалнаманың нәтижелері". Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (in Kazakh). 22 August 2024. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  113. ^ "САУАЛНАМА: Қазақстандықтардың АЭС туралы пікірі екіге бөлінді" (Press release) (in Kazakh). Demoscope. 11 October 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2024.
  114. ^ Дәурен, Ерболат (27 August 2024). "АЭС құрылысына қарсы топ қоғамдық пікірге ықпал еткісі келеді – министр" [Minister: A group wants to alter the public opinion on the nuclear power plant construction]. halyq-uni.kz (in Kazakh). Retrieved 3 September 2024.