Russia to Build Eight Nuclear Reactors in Iran, Confirms Iranian Atomic Chief

Iran has announced that Russia will build eight new nuclear power plants on its territory as part of a previously signed bilateral agreement. The announcement was made by Mohammad Eslami, President of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI), during a high-level visit by members of the Iranian parliament’s national security and foreign policy committee to the AEOI headquarters in Tehran. The move is seen as a major step toward expanding Iran’s civilian nuclear energy capacity with long-term support from Russia’s Rosatom.

Why in News?

Iran’s atomic chief confirmed Russia’s commitment to constructing eight nuclear plants under an existing contract. The declaration comes amid Iran’s broader strategy to triple its nuclear energy capacity. The announcement was made during a parliamentary visit to the AEOI headquarters in Tehran. The development highlights growing strategic energy cooperation between Tehran and Moscow.

Project Details

• Total Plants Planned: 8 nuclear reactors
• Partner Country: Russia
• Implementing Agency: Rosatom (Russia’s state nuclear agency)
• Location Focus: 4 plants to be located in Bushehr Province (southern Iran)

Current Developments

• Units 2 and 3 of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant are under construction by Iranian firms.
• These new developments aim to expand Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Strategic Objectives

• Triple nuclear energy output as part of Iran’s long-term energy strategy.
• Enhance domestic power generation capacity.
• Strengthen Iran-Russia strategic ties through energy collaboration.
• Support Iran’s civilian nuclear program in line with international regulations.

Background

• The Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant was completed by Russia in May 2011 and remains Iran’s only operational nuclear power facility.
• It is considered a cornerstone of Iran’s nuclear energy ambitions and is monitored under the IAEA framework.
• Iran’s civilian nuclear agenda remains under close scrutiny due to past concerns about potential dual-use capabilities.

Key Stakeholders

• Mohammad Eslami – President, AEOI
• Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee
• Rosatom – Russian state nuclear corporation
• Iranian energy and construction companies