About
Background and benefits
“Akademik Lomonosov” floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) is the world’s first mobile small-sized NPP that consists of a reactor vessel and a floating power unit (FPU).
A nuclear FPU is equipped with two KLT-40S reactor systems (each with a 35 MWe capacity) similar to those used on icebreakers. Designed by Russian nuclear scientists and naval architects, the vessel is 144 metres long and 30 metres wide, and has a displacement of 21,000 tonnes. "Akademik Lomonosov" – the first ship of this kind – was named after the 18th century Russian scientist Mikhail Lomonosov.
The lifecycle of a nuclear FPU is 40 years, with the possibility of being extended by up to 50 years. Reactors will be refueled once every 3 years. "Akademik Lomonosov" has special compartments onboard to store spent nuclear fuel. After decommissioning, an FPU will be towed to a special deconstruction and recycling facility. No spent nuclear fuel or radioactive waste will be left in the Arctic – spent fuel will be taken to the special storage facilities in mainland Russia.
Why is it needed?
The plant will enable reliable, safe and affordable energy supply and ensure sustainable development of the key industries in the destination region, Chukotka. The "Akademik Lomonosov" FNPP will replace Pevek’s aging Bilibino nuclear power plant and Chaunsk coal-fired power plant, saving about 50,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year compared to current levels.
The future of the entire Chukotka Region – the most remote and the most extreme weather region in Russia – and of all its 50,000 inhabitants hinges on the project.
Why is it unique?
Though "Akademik Lomonosov" is a first-of-a kind project, it is built upon 400 reactor-years experience of safe operation of units powering icebreakers. "Akademik Lomonosov" features the most cutting-edge safety and security systems and is expected to be one of the safest nuclear installations in the world.
It is a significant milestone for the global nuclear industry, confirming Russia's leading position.