The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued an operating licence for a reactor at its Barakah nuclear power plant, the first in Arab world.
Addressing a press conference, Deputy Chairman of Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) Hamad al-Kaabi said, “This is a historic moment for the UAE, making it the first Arab country in the region to operate a nuclear plant.”
Hamad al-Kaabi said, “The licence granted for the nuclear plant operator Nawah Energy Company and will last for 60 years,” adding that the company can now start preparing for commercial operations.
When completed the four reactors have a total capacity of 5,600 megawatts, around 25 percent of the nation’s need. The remaining three reactors are almost ready for operation.
The Barakah nuclear power plant located in Abu Dhabi is being built by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) at a cost of almost $24.4 billion.
It was originally due to open in 2017 but was delayed that officials attributed to safety and regulatory requirements.
ADVERTISEMENT
