The probability of damage to the core at the RBMK-1000 power units of the Kursk NPP has decreased by approximately 100 times. This result was achieved through many years of modernization carried out by the station's specialists together with the NRC "Kurchatov Institute", JSC "NIKIET", JSC "VNIIAES" and LLC "Prolog".
The reactors received a completely updated control system, new emergency cooling systems, and a high-speed protection system that triggers in 2.5 seconds. The transition to uranium-erbium fuel improved the physical parameters of the core. Modern RBMKs have become self-protected: safety systems operate on a passive principle and remain operational in the event of a single failure.
At the scientific and technical conference, the director of the Kursk NPP, Alexander Uvakin, noted that, despite the long service life, power units with RBMK retain high potential. According to him, channel reactors make a significant contribution to electricity generation and open up opportunities for new activities, provided that radiation and environmental safety are carefully assessed.
Currently, units No. 3 and No. 4 of RBMK-1000 are operating in generation mode at the Kursk NPP. Unit No. 4 is operating according to schedule, unit No. 3 is undergoing scheduled maintenance. Units No. 1 and No. 2 have been decommissioned due to their service life.
Since the end of 2025, the first power unit of the new VVER-TOI type has been connected to the grid, and the construction of the second one continues.