MINSK, 12 January (BelTA) – The demand for nuclear energy is growing worldwide as global energy markets are undergoing transformation, Belarus’ Deputy Energy Minister Denis Moroz said at a meeting with youth activists of Minsk State Energy College, BelTA learned from the press service of the Energy Ministry.
According to IAEA forecasts, world nuclear capacity is expected to more than double to 890 GW(e) by 2050. Belarus has already built its own nuclear power plant with two power units, which operates at full capacity. “The nuclear power plant helps maintain security and economic stability, promote innovative development of various sectors of the economy, including nuclear medicine, electric transport, facilitates development and introduction of new technologies in industry and energy sector,” said Denis Moroz.
The nuclear power plant helps meet the growing demand for electricity on the part of the economy and households. The country is actively electrifying the housing stock: modern all-electric apartment buildings are commissioned; single-family homes are converted to use electricity for heating and hot water supply. It is more convenient and cost-effective for households. Electricity consumption by industrial enterprises is growing. Energy-intensive industries are entitled to special tariffs based on the principle “consume more, pay less.”
According to the deputy minister, in 2023 total electricity consumption in the country exceeded 41 billion kWh, the highest in the entire history of independent Belarus. He also answered questions regarding the support of young specialists working in industry, the possibilities of using artificial intelligence, upgrade of the power grid infrastructure and other questions. He held a candid conversation with students of various specialties, among them participants of the projects “100 ideas for Belarus”, “Minsk Shift 2023”, representatives of the student council.
