Armenian water storage power station accident

What is the most dangerous nuclear power plant in Armenia?

The Armenian Nuclear Power Plant (ANPP), also known as the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, is the only nuclear power plant in Armenia. Its aging design and proximity to earthquake-prone areas make it among the most dangerous nuclear plants in the world.

Where is the Armenian nuclear power plant located?

The Armenian Nuclear Power Plant (ANPP), also known as the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, is the only nuclear power plant in Armenia, located 35 kilometers west of Yerevan, the capital of the country. Metsamor lies on some of Earth's most earthquake-prone terrain and after Fukishima, the seismic risk to the aging power plant has become a

When was Armenia's Metsamor nuclear power plant built?

Armenia’s two-reactor Metsamor nuclear power plant was built on an earthquake-prone zone and was put into operation in 1976 without containment structures. / Courtesy

Does Japan's earthquake triggered crisis affect Armenia's nuclear plant?

Japan's earthquake-triggered crisis has focused attention on the seismic risk to Armenia's aging Soviet-style nuclear plant. In the shadow of Mount Ararat, the beloved and sorrowful national symbol of Armenia, stands a 31-year-old nuclear plant that is no less an emblem of the country's resolve and its woe.

Should Armenia build a new nuclear plant?

The United States government, which has called the plant " aging and dangerous ," underwrote a study that urged construction of a new one. Plans to replace Metsamor after 2016—with a new nuclear plant at the same location—are under way. But until then, Armenia has little choice but to keep Metsamor's turbines turning.

Why is Armenia's nuclear plant a national symbol?

In the shadow of Mount Ararat, the beloved and sorrowful national symbol of Armenia, stands a 31-year-old nuclear plant that is no less an emblem of the country's resolve and its woe. The Metsamor power station is one of a mere handful of remaining nuclear reactors of its kind that were built without primary containment structures.