Akkuyu nuclear power plant completes dummy fuel loading for first unit

The Akkuyu nuclear power plant in Turkey has reached a new development milestone with the completion of a dummy nuclear fuel loading process in its first reactor unit. Authorities installed 163 simulated fuel assemblies that match the dimensions and weight of real fuel but contain no radioactive material. This five-day operation, supervised by the Turkish Nuclear Regulatory Authority, was conducted to test the reactor's mechanical, hydraulic, and thermal systems. The process serves as a final simulation before the actual nuclear fuel loading begins. Following this phase, engineers will proceed with the installation of the reactor's upper section and conduct subsequent cold and hot testing. Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar stated the government aims to begin electricity production by the end of 2026. While one source suggests the plant will be fully operational by the end of 2026, official ministry goals indicate an initial power generation target for the same timeframe.