Digitalization Will Accelerate Construction of 38 Nuclear Power Plants

Digital Optimization

Building a nuclear power plant is one of the most complex engineering challenges in the world. Each facility consists of thousands of interdependent elements that must operate within a single safety and control framework, all under strict deadlines and rigorous quality standards.

Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom, through its subsidiary Atomstroyexport (ASE), is deploying advanced digital tools to coordinate construction at international project sites in Turkey, Egypt, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.

By 2042, Russia plans to build 38 power units domestically and another 31 abroad. Managing such a large volume of high‑tech construction using traditional methods is nearly impossible. To meet these demands, ASE has launched an ambitious program centered on modern information systems.

Three‑Dimensional Nuclear Plant Models

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a three‑dimensional digital representation of a facility that integrates all systems and data. With a BIM model of a nuclear plant, designers, contractors, and regulators share a single, unified view of the object. Any modification made to the model becomes instantly visible to all participants, eliminating design conflicts and system inconsistencies.

“Given how much and how quickly we need to build, we must transition to a conveyor‑style construction model, and digital solutions should support this as much as possible. Today we are redesigning construction oversight, implementing information‑management systems, and placing significant emphasis on building complete digital facility models.”

Irina Vlasova

Vice President for Digitalization and IT at ASE

The model contains not only geometry, but also engineering data: materials, equipment specifications, installation schedules, cost estimates, and safety requirements. This allows potential issues to be identified and resolved during design rather than during costly on‑site rework.

Management Systems: From Planning to Oversight

ASE continues to develop digital solutions for cost and schedule control. In this respect, Rosatom has already achieved full digital independence, relying on domestic tools and technologies.

At the same time, engineering‑data management systems are being implemented at project sites in Hungary and Egypt. These platforms track the full lifecycle of documentation—from design and approval to installation and archiving.

Exporting Technology Solutions

The digital tools created for nuclear construction have become a competitive advantage for Rosatom. The company can now offer not only equipment, but a full turnkey package with digital lifecycle management and project oversight.

Multi‑D digital platforms have already helped strengthen Russia’s technological competitiveness and independence in domestic nuclear projects. Similar systems can be exported to other sectors, including energy, heavy machinery, and large‑scale civil construction.

Digitalization of nuclear construction is now a strategic necessity—enabling better risk management, greater efficiency, and a stronger global position for Russia in the nuclear energy market.