Experts Consider Two Options for Completing Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant - Shmyhal

According to the information agency Ukrinform, Denys Shmyhal, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine, stated in a post on Telegram that nuclear generation must become the foundation of the new energy architecture of the country. He noted that this form of energy allows for effective coverage of the base load on the energy grid, which is critically important for the stability of electricity supply in Ukraine.

Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine needs to complete the construction of the 3rd and 4th units of the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. He reported that there are currently two options for completing these units, and specialists are actively working to determine the most optimal solution for implementing this project.

During his recent visit to one of the nuclear power plants, Shmyhal held a meeting dedicated to the future of Ukrainian nuclear energy. The management of the plant reported on efforts to increase the capacity of the nuclear power plant, as well as measures aimed at enhancing the protection and security of the facilities. The First Deputy Prime Minister stressed that active construction of protective structures is ongoing at the site, which is a crucial element for ensuring the safety of nuclear energy.

Shmyhal also pointed out that one of the important areas of work is the modernization of nuclear power plant capacities and the construction of additional backup transmission lines, which will strengthen the overall energy security of the country. He emphasized that the parties agreed to work in this direction, which is an important step towards ensuring the stability of Ukraine's energy system.

It is worth noting that on February 11, 2025, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine supported the initiative to purchase Russian-made equipment from Bulgaria for the completion of two energy units at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. However, a separate law regulating this procedure must be adopted for actual construction to commence.

Additionally, on April 15, 2025, Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov stated that Bulgaria does not plan to sell Ukraine two reactors from the unfinished Belene Nuclear Power Plant, which had previously been considered for use at the Khmelnytskyi NPP. This has posed yet another challenge for Ukraine in the context of completing the nuclear energy units.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on March 30, 2026, that the Ukrainian side is ready to continue cooperation to obtain two units for the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. This indicates that the issue of completing the nuclear units remains on the agenda, and Ukraine is actively seeking ways to implement this important project.

In light of these developments, it is important to note that nuclear energy is a strategically significant sector for Ukraine, as it provides a substantial portion of the country's electricity supply. In the face of global challenges and the need for stability in the energy system, the completion of the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant could become a key element in ensuring Ukraine's energy independence.

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