Kazakhstan ready to power World’s green transition with nuclear energy
As the UK accelerates its decarbonisation efforts, nuclear power is set to play a key role in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The government’s goal of expanding nuclear capacity to 24 gigawatts by mid-century, meeting 25% of projected electricity demand, highlights the need for reliable, low-carbon energy sources. As the world’s top uranium producer, Kazakhstan is poised to be a vital partner in this transition, supplying the fuel that powers nuclear reactors and supports the UK’s clean energy goals.
At COP28, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasised the urgent need to accelerate deployment of nuclear power to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. This sentiment was reinforced at COP29, where 31 countries committed to tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 to meet global climate goals. These developments highlight the growing recognition of nuclear energy’s role in providing reliable, low-carbon power essential for a sustainable future.
Yet, nuclear energy often takes a backseat to renewables like solar and wind in energy discussions. However, unlike weather-dependent renewables, nuclear power provides consistent energy, making it essential for a balanced, reliable energy mix. While renewables are key to a sustainable future, nuclear energy is equally crucial for meeting the growing demand for clean, stable power.
As the world’s largest uranium producer, Kazatomprom is central to this energy shift, supplying about 20% of global uranium production. In 2023, the company generated $3.1 billion in revenue and $1.3 billion in net profit, highlighting strong market demand for nuclear fuel amid the push for energy resilience and climate stability.
Sustainable Footprint
Nuclear energy’s low-carbon footprint makes it vital in the fight against climate change. Unlike coal or natural gas, it produces no direct carbon emissions during operation. As countries pursue net-zero goals, nuclear power complements renewables by providing reliable baseload energy when solar and wind output falters. Its stability also addresses energy security concerns amid volatile fossil fuel markets and geopolitical tensions.
Kazatomprom’s sustainability efforts go beyond uranium supply. Its Decarbonisation and Carbon Neutrality Strategy focuses on minimizing environmental impacts through cleaner technologies and efficient processes. This includes recovering valuable by-products like scandium, vanadium, and selenium from uranium production waste, reducing resource wastage while supporting clean-tech industries. With targets for cutting emissions, boosting energy efficiency, and driving low-carbon research, Kazatomprom demonstrates how industrial leaders can align profitability with environmental responsibility, fostering a sustainable global economy.
Innovation is key to addressing the challenges of the evolving energy landscape. At Kazatomprom, we have partnered with Siemens to establish a production facility in Kazakhstan for advanced industrial equipment, including electromagnetic flowmeters and pressure sensors. This project strengthens local industrial capabilities while supporting the broader energy sector. Meanwhile, our research collaborations with international organisations aim to expand the applications of nuclear technology, including the production of medical radioisotopes from uranium by-products. These initiatives illustrate how nuclear energy’s potential extends far beyond electricity generation.
Global Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Kazatomprom’s Ulba Metallurgical Plant was selected by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2017 to host the Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) Bank, ensuring a secure uranium supply for IAEA Member States lacking enrichment capabilities. In 2019, Kazatomprom completed the LEU Bank’s final delivery, reinforcing its trusted status in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Kazatomprom’s journey reflects Kazakhstan’s rise as a global energy leader. In 2024, the company secured new uranium exploration licenses, adding over 180,000 tons of potential resources. Investments in digital technologies also boost operational safety and efficiency. The eKAP app automates pre-shift safety checks for over 20,000 employees, reducing accidents and enhancing compliance. Advanced video analytics further ensure real-time safety monitoring, detecting hazards like missing personal protective equipment (PPE) or perimeter breaches, setting industry-leading safety standards.
Equally important is Kazatomprom’s commitment to social responsibility, which aligns with global efforts to create inclusive and equitable development. By investing in education, youth development, and community infrastructure, we contribute to building the skilled workforce required to sustain not only our operations but also the broader energy industry. Programmes like Murager, which provides grants to underserved students, and our partnerships with international institutions exemplify the role corporations can play in addressing global challenges such as access to education and social mobility.
Nuclear is the Path Forward
As the world tackles energy and climate challenges, nuclear energy’s role has never been more critical. Reliable, scalable, and essential for climate goals, its potential depends on sustained investment, innovation, and global cooperation.
Kazatomprom is ready to lead this transition by ensuring a stable nuclear fuel supply, driving technological advancements, and prioritizing sustainability. As countries, including the UK, consider nuclear energy for future energy needs, Kazatomprom stands prepared to support this shift. By providing reliable, low-carbon energy, we help power economies while advancing global sustainability efforts. Nuclear energy isn’t just part of the solution—it’s central to it.
Meirzhan Yussupov is CEO of Kazatomprom.
