Kyiv Considers Two Options to Complete Unfinished Reactors at Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant

On Monday, Ukraine's Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal revealed that the country is currently considering two options to finalize the construction of the third and fourth reactors at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). This development follows Bulgaria's recent decision not to sell two Russian reactors to Ukraine, which has further complicated the energy landscape amid ongoing challenges.

According to state media reports, including information from the Ukrinform agency, specialists are actively working to identify the 'most optimal' method for completing the long-delayed reactors. Shmyhal emphasized that nuclear energy is foundational to the future energy system of Ukraine, making it critically important for ensuring the country's energy independence.

The Khmelnytskyi NPP, located in western Ukraine, currently operates two reactors with a combined capacity of approximately 2000 megawatts (MW). The construction of the third and fourth reactors began during the Soviet era but has remained unfinished. Shmyhal noted that nuclear energy could 'cover the base load of Ukraine's energy grid.'

'Nuclear generation will become the cornerstone of a new energy architecture, as it allows us to cover the base load of the energy grid,' Shmyhal stated in a message via Telegram, adding that completing the two units at the Khmelnytskyi NPP remains a priority for the government.

The renewed focus on expanding nuclear generation comes against the backdrop of ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. By the end of 2025, persistent strikes on thermal and hydroelectric stations across Ukraine have led to widespread planned power outages, with nuclear energy continuing to serve as the backbone of the country's energy production, despite some reactors being forced to reduce output due to damaged infrastructure.

Recently, Ukraine considered the possibility of acquiring two VVER-1000 reactors manufactured in Russia, which were originally built for the unfinished Belene NPP in Bulgaria. Although the Ukrainian Parliament approved the purchase in early 2025, Bulgarian authorities later halted the sale, delaying Kyiv's plans to complete the construction of new reactors.

This situation underscores the significance of nuclear energy for Ukraine amid wartime conditions, where ensuring stable electricity supply is becoming increasingly critical. The government continues to seek solutions to enhance the country's energy security, and completing the construction of reactors at the Khmelnytskyi NPP could represent a vital step in that direction.