Kyrgyzstan weighs referendum on first nuclear plant

Kyrgyz authorities are considering putting the construction of a nuclear power plant to a nationwide referendum, according to local media reports.

Preparatory phase underway

Bishkek is not yet launching the project itself but is focusing on preliminary steps, including infrastructure development and workforce training.

Read also: Why Russia’s Rosatom is the undisputed pick for Kazakhstan’s first nuclear plant.

Negotiations are ongoing with Rosatom on building necessary infrastructure and preparing specialists. The cabinet said only after these discussions are completed will the issue of actual construction be considered.

Public vote planned

Authorities say the final decision will depend on public opinion. To that end, the government plans to submit the issue to a referendum, allowing citizens to weigh in on whether the country should move forward with nuclear energy development.

Officials believe nuclear power could help address Kyrgyzstan’s growing energy deficit. Amid economic expansion, demand for electricity is rising, and nuclear energy is being considered a stable, long-term source of power.