Russia’s ability to act as a “one stop shop” for all nuclear energy needs means it can offer packages to countries where nuclear was previously unattainable, especially in the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa and South America.

A study by the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs says Russia is the only supplier providing such an all-inclusive package. This comprises reactor construction knowhow, training, support related to safety, non-proliferation regime requirements and flexible financing options, including government-sourced credit lines.

The way state nuclear corporation Rosatom designs its projects makes it a convenient partner for nuclear newcomers. While details of contractual agreements vary from case to case, the developer takes care of the entire process until the plant is ready to use and can be handed over to local (Russian-trained) nuclear experts to operate.