A critical phase has been reached at the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, one of Turkey's significant energy projects. Comprehensive control and testing activities are being carried out on all systems and equipment for the commissioning process of the first unit of the plant, which is under construction in Gülnar district of Mersin. Sergei Butckikh, General Manager of Akkuyu Nuclear JSC, announced that the systems are being gradually switched to operational mode and that hot and cold trial tests will begin in the coming days with the loading of imitation fuel rods into the reactor. These tests are seen as an important stage for the safe and efficient operation of the plant. Assembly and construction activities continue on the other three units. When operating at full capacity, the total power of the four reactors is planned to meet approximately 10% of Turkey's electricity demand. After the first unit, the other units are planned to be commissioned one year apart. The operational life of the project is expected to be extended up to 80 years with technology updates.