- UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant achieves significant milestone with the start-up of Unit 4, enhancing the country’s nuclear energy capabilities.
- Rigorous regulatory oversight ensures safety and efficiency throughout the construction and activation process, with Unit 4 poised to contribute to 25% of the UAE’s electricity demand upon full commercial operation.
- ENEC’s strategic vision and commitment to innovation position the UAE as a global leader in nuclear energy, driving progress towards sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship.
The recent start-up of Unit 4 at the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE marks a significant advancement in the country’s nuclear energy program. This unit, like its predecessors, employs nuclear fission to generate heat, which is then utilized to produce steam for electricity generation through turbines.
The construction of the APR-1400 units began in 2012, with Unit 4’s construction initiated in 2015. The earlier units, Units 1, 2, and 3, commenced commercial operation in April 2021, March 2022, and February 2023, respectively. Unit 4 is now undergoing testing to gradually ramp up its power output to full capacity, as it prepares to link to the national electricity grid.
Throughout this process, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) in the UAE has maintained rigorous regulatory oversight, ensuring that the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), the operator, adheres to all safety and regulatory standards. ENEC reports that each subsequent unit has demonstrated improved efficiency, with Unit 3 notably being delivered ahead of schedule.
Upon achieving full commercial operation, the Barakah plant’s four pressurized water reactors will collectively contribute up to 5.6 GW of electricity, satisfying approximately 25% of the UAE’s energy demand. This accomplishment aligns with the UAE’s strategic energy objectives, which seek to diversify energy sources and promote long-term sustainability and carbon neutrality.
Mohamed Al Hammadi, the Managing Director and CEO of ENEC, underscores the pivotal role of nuclear energy in the UAE’s efforts to decarbonize the power sector and foster economic and environmental prosperity. The country’s commitment to nuclear energy dates back to 2008, reflecting a deliberate strategy to bolster energy security and combat climate change.
Looking ahead, ENEC aims to expand the UAE’s nuclear energy sector by investing in research and development and embracing advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors. Collaboration with both domestic and international stakeholders will be instrumental in advancing deployment strategies and achieving the ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
As this progress unfolds, FANR will continue its vigilant regulatory oversight and inspection to uphold safety and security standards, thereby safeguarding the welfare of the public, workers, and the environment.