Kazakhstan: one nuclear plant to need over 10,000 workers during construction

Almasadam Satkaliyev, chairman of Kazakhstan's Atomic Energy Agency, told an expanded meeting of the parliamentary Committee on Economic Policy, Industry and Energy that building one nuclear power plant with two power units would require more than 10,000 workers. Operating it would need about 1,800 specialists. Kazakhstan plans to build two nuclear plants.

On 23 September 2026, the government approved a comprehensive plan for training personnel for the nuclear sector for 2027–2031, covering education programmes, internships, training infrastructure and international cooperation. The localisation target for the first nuclear plant project is set at 30 percent, to be pursued through 22 measures across four directions.

Satkaliyev also outlined plans for a state strategic uranium reserve. Under Kazakhstan's nuclear strategy to 2050, the country is to build a reserve of at least 150,000 tonnes of uranium. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed starting construction of the Balkhash nuclear plant next year.