The preservation and development of nuclear energy continues to be a strategic direction for Armenia

The preservation and development of nuclear energy continues to be a strategic direction for Armenia, according to the program "Long-term development of the energy system of the Republic of Armenia (until 2036)" - approved by the Government of the Republic of Armenia in December 2015. Presence of NPP in the structure of the base electricity will allow Armenia to maintain the required level of energy security. On October 27 at the regular 15th session of the Atomic Energy Security Council under the President of Armenia, said President Serzh Sargsyan.

- The project provides for extending the life of the existing block until 2027 and the subsequent implementation of the phased introduction of new nuclear units, - said the President.

Touching upon the implementation of the program for extending the life of the second block of the ANPP, the President noted that for this purpose the Republic of Armenia and the Russian Federation signed agreements Government Export Loan and Grant to the Government of Armenia. In the framework of the project for extending the lifespan of the second unit, projectic and operational safety enhancements as well as its upgrade.

-In 2017 planed during the pre-repairs the first phase of extension of exploitation period, including the instrumental examination of power unit, was practically completed, - said President Serzh Sargsyan.

Miroslav Lipar, who assumed the post of the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Security Council, also touched upon the measures taken to improve the level of the ANPP. Highly appreciating the work done, M. Lipar gladly records that after each visit, new improvements and progress are observed in the ANPP.

- The Council will continue to focus on the safe operation of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant, - said Lipar.

Assessing the safety of the nuclear power plant, Miroslav Lipar noted that the ANPP passes a security review process every year. The Security Council carries out activities to improve security through planning and security at different stages.

- I can confirm that many international missions come to Armenia, which visit the nuclear power plant. Such a mission can't give a conclusion that everything is 100% safer, but they can give proper advice, and to make proposals for improving security.

According Miroslav Lipar's checking pipelines and valves is a priority for the safety of the nuclear power plant, which, he said, is 100% complete.