Smolensk NPP operates three RBMK-1000 graphite-moderated, light water-cooled reactors, each with a net capacity of 925MWe.[1] The reactors use uranium enriched to 2.0 or 2.4 percent.[2] Construction of Smolensk-1 began in 1975 with commercial operation beginning in 1983; construction of Smolensk-3 in 1984 with operation in 1990.[3] Construction of a fourth unit stopped in 1986.[5] In 2010, Smolensk NPP operated with a capacity factor of approximately 67 percent.[6] The reactors at SNPP are scheduled to close between 2015 and 2028.[7] A second NPP at Smolensk, consisting of four VVER-1200 reactors, has been proposed and is to begin commercial operation between 2017 and 2020.[8]

Under the International Nuclear Safety Program, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) assisted with safety improvements at Smolensk NPP. Projects included fire safety upgrades, training, and improved emergency operating instructions, among others activities.[9] The European Union has provided safety assistance to NVNPP through its Technical Assistance to the CIS (TACIS) program.[10]

Sources:
[1] “Generation,” Smolensk NPP, www.snpp.rosenergoatom.ru; Power Reactor Information System database, International Atomic Energy Agency, www.iaea.org.
[2] “Generation,” Smolensk NPP, www.snpp.rosenergoatom.ru.
[3] Power Reactor Information System database, International Atomic Energy Agency, www.iaea.org.
[5] “Generation,” Smolensk NPP, www.snpp.rosenergoatom.ru.
[6] “Pokazateli raboty,” Smolensk NPP, www.snpp.rosenergoatom.ru.
[7] “Nuclear Power in Russia,” World Nuclear Association, March 2011, www.world-nuclear.org.
[8] “Nuclear Power in Russia,” World Nuclear Association, March 2011, www.world-nuclear.org.
[9] Status Report: Ten Years of Safety Improvements, Office of International Nuclear Safety and Cooperation, U.S. Department of Energy, 2003, p. 89-91, insp.pnnl.gov.
[10] “International activities,” Smolensk NPP, www.snpp.rosenergoatom.ru