In a significant move that could reshape the nuclear energy landscape in the Middle East, Iran and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Iran. The agreement, inked between the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) and Rosatom, marks a deepening of ties between the two countries in the realm of peaceful nuclear energy.
The MOU, signed by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and AEOI head Mohammad Eslami during Rosatom’s World Atomic Week in Moscow, aims to expand cooperation in the peaceful uses of atomic energy. This collaboration is expected to promote sustainable development, energy security, and technological progress, all while adhering to national laws and international obligations.
AEOI stated that the agreement paves the way for future contracts on the design and construction of SMR-based power plants. These reactors are anticipated to play a pivotal role in advancing Iran’s technical knowledge and nuclear technology, as well as supporting the manufacture of power plant tools and equipment. Moreover, the acquisition of SMR technology could provide Iran with new capacity to power large industries and stabilize its electricity network.
During their discussions, Eslami and Likhachev reviewed the progress of ongoing projects and explored promising agendas for further cooperation. Eslami’s visit to Moscow also included tours of contracted factories and meetings with scientific and research institutions, aimed at strengthening research and educational cooperation. Rosatom described the meeting as taking place in an atmosphere of mutual trust, openness, and constructiveness.
Russia has long supported Iran’s right to develop nuclear energy for civilian use, despite international pressure. Eslami revealed that Iran and Russia have agreed to build eight new nuclear power plants in Iran, signaling a significant deepening of cooperation. Formal agreements are expected to be signed shortly, allowing construction work to begin. Eslami noted that the goal is to help Iran reach 20 gigawatts of nuclear energy capacity by 2040.
Eslami also highlighted that agreements have already been signed between the two governments, with Russia assigned a defined share in this development process. He emphasized that the construction of the second and third units of the Bushehr nuclear power plant is currently underway by Russia, underscoring the project’s priority for both Tehran and Moscow.
The Bushehr NPP, initially started in 1975 with West German company Kraftwerk Union AG, was halted in 1979 following the Islamic revolution. In 1992, Russia and Iran signed an agreement to continue construction using Russian VVER-1000 technology. The first power unit was connected to the network in September 2011, with its official transfer to Iran taking place in September 2013.
Eslami explained that the contract between the two countries envisages the construction of eight nuclear power units by Russia, four of which are in Bushehr. According to the contract, Iran is required to notify the Russian side about the construction of the remaining plants. He added that negotiations and necessary studies for the implementation of the second part of the contract have been conducted, and the location for the construction of the plants has been chosen, prepared, and equipped. Once the agreement is concluded, the operational phase for designing, engineering, and further actions will automatically begin.
This development could have significant implications for the global nuclear energy sector. The collaboration between Iran and Russia on SMRs could accelerate the adoption of this advanced nuclear technology, which is seen as a safer and more flexible alternative to traditional nuclear power plants. Furthermore, the agreement underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, despite geopolitical tensions.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, this partnership between Iran and Russia could serve as a model for other countries seeking to expand their nuclear energy capabilities. However, it also raises questions about the potential proliferation risks and the role of international safeguards in ensuring that nuclear technology is used solely for peaceful purposes.
In the coming years, the success of this collaboration will be closely watched by the international community, as it could shape the future of nuclear energy in the Middle East and beyond.