Russian Ambassador Showcases Nuclear Power Plant Technology

The discourse surrounding Indonesia’s potential development of nuclear power plants has not gone unnoticed by Russia. The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, is aware of the various options and proposals from other countries that Indonesia is considering. However, he believes that Russian technology is superior. According to Tolchenov, many other countries are offering technologies that have not yet been proven reliable. In contrast, Russia’s nuclear power plant technology is already implemented. “We have a floating nuclear power plant. It is the first and, to date, the only one in the world. We have already used this power plant,” said Tolchenov, during a media briefing at his residence in Jakarta, Thursday (February 26, 2026). Tolchenov stated that they have sent three journalists to directly inspect the power plant. “We hope that more journalists from Indonesia can be sent there in the future,” Tolchenov added. The power plant in question, named Akademik Lomonosov, is located in Pevek, Chukotka. It has been operational since 2020 and produces 70,000 megawatts of electricity. This amount of power is enough to supply 100,000 homes. The Akademik Lomonosov, managed by the state-owned enterprise Rosenergoatom, is claimed to be very safe and resistant to earthquakes, tsunamis, and tornadoes. The floating construction is adapted to the needs of supplying electricity to remote Arctic regions. The idea of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and Daily Chairman of the National Energy Council (DEN), Bahlil Lahadalia, to develop nuclear energy in Indonesia has received a positive response from academics. Russian President Vladimir Putin offered support in the form of experts for Indonesia’s nuclear power plant project during his meeting with President Prabowo in Moscow. We must honestly acknowledge that, throughout Indonesia’s five-decade journey in nuclear issues, it has always stumbled on the same point: commitments that are easily made but fragile when tested. Minister of ESDM Bahlil Lahadalia revealed that he has met with representatives from Canada and Russia to discuss the development of nuclear power plants in Indonesia. The government must send experts to developed countries that have already operated nuclear power plants.