In this September, an independent group of international experts from eight countries (Lithuania, Kazakhstan, Hungary, Austria, Italy, Belarus, Ukraine, Russia) initiated a comprehensive analysis of documents on the initiative of the Ministry of Energy and with the support of the Municipal Development Assistance Fund “Association of Nuclear Power Plant Locations” substantiating the environmental safety of Belarusian NPP.
The final conclusion of the expert commission noted that the submitted documents provide an exhaustive overview of planned measures to ensure nuclear, radiation and environmental safety. It fully complies with the norms and rules established by the legislation of Belarus and the recommendations of the IAEA. The possible environmental impact during the operation of the NPP is within acceptable limits. In conclusion, it was emphasized that the “zero background” measured before the deployment of nuclear fuel and the start of operation of BelNPP would be a reference point for further assessment of the radioecological impact of the NPP.
Experts also noted well-organized interaction and regular informing of the population about the progress of the project, which helps to increase the activity of interested segments of the population, including public organizations.
As a recommendation, when operating the nuclear power plant, it is proposed to attract international experts and independent experts to monitor the radioecological situation in the observation zone.
Belarusian NPP with two VVER-1200 reactors with a total capacity of 2,400 MW is being built under Russian project near Ostrovets (Grodno oblast). The general contractor for the construction of BelNPP is the engineering division of the state corporation Rosatom (ASE).
