Russia's Uranium Ambitions: Rosatom's Shirondukuyskoye Project

Russia's state-run nuclear corporation, Rosatom, has embarked on a significant venture in eastern Siberia. The company has commenced the development of the Shirondukuyskoye uranium deposit, expecting the first production of uranium by 2028, according to its mining division. This project is close to Krasnokamensk, a city recognized as Russia's uranium hub due to its proximity to China and Mongolia.

With estimated reserves of 8,000 tons of uranium and 40,000 tons of molybdenum, the Shirondukuyskoye deposit forms a critical part of Rosatom's strategy to enhance the country's uranium mining industry. This initiative will not only sustain planned uranium production volumes but also promote Krasnokamensk's long-term development, stated the mining division.

Currently ranked as the world's sixth-largest uranium producer, Russia is working to expand its domestic output. Rosatom aims to increase production to 4,000 tons by 2030. In parallel, the country is advancing its nuclear energy share to reach 25% by 2045, a leap from the current 20%.

(With inputs from agencies.)