Russia is poised for a significant technological breakthrough within the next three years with the launch of the world’s first nuclear reactor utilizing liquid aluminum as a coolant. Announced by Rosatom’s CEO, Alexey Likhachev, during a “government hour” session in the State Duma, this innovative project promises to make natural resources for nuclear energy virtually infinite and completely eliminate the possibility of accidents. By the 2030s, Russia plans to mass-produce such reactors, marking its entry into the global market.
This advancement is part of Russia’s broader strategy to expand nuclear generation to Siberia and the Far East. Likhachev emphasized the importance of technological development in achieving the president’s mandate for nuclear generation to constitute 25% of the country’s energy balance by 2045. This expansion would necessitate a significant increase in nuclear power output to match the consumption of 77 cities the size of Moscow.
A key innovation in this endeavor is the BREST reactors, currently under development in Sever, Tomsk region. Unlike traditional water-cooled reactors, BREST reactors use molten lead as a coolant and operate on a closed nuclear fuel cycle. This design allows for the utilization of uranium-238 isotopes found in spent fuel “pellets,” which are typically stored. The BREST reactor could turn this vast amount of waste into a valuable resource, making the fuel supply practically endless.
Likhachev also assured the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), currently operated by Rosatom. Despite the ongoing conflict, the ZNPP’s equipment and infrastructure remain in satisfactory condition, with only one power unit in operation to provide steam and hot water for the station and the nearby city of Energodar.
Addressing future plans, Likhachev proposed the creation of a national program or project focused on cities of technological sovereignty. This initiative aims to elevate the living standards in these cities to match those of the capital, ensuring the retention and attraction of scientists and researchers.
State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin commended Rosatom’s efforts and supported the idea of improving atomic cities. He suggested regular meetings between Likhachev and deputies representing these areas to discuss and address existing challenges.
This ambitious project not only aims to revolutionize Russia’s nuclear energy sector but also signifies a major step towards achieving technological sovereignty and sustainable development. 
