The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is pushing forward with its goal of increasing its share of nuclear power. To achieve its net zero emissions target by 2050. In pursuit of this objective, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) has signed three agreements with Chinese nuclear energy organizations during a visit to China.
The agreements cover potential collaboration in nuclear energy operations and maintenance, high temperature gas-cooled reactors, and nuclear fuel supply and investment. ENEC’s CEO, Mohamed Al Hammadi, met with senior officials from the organizations to discuss opportunities for future cooperation.
The UAE is already constructing the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi. It will have four reactors with a total capacity of 5,600 megawatts. Moreover, it will provide around 25% of the UAE’s peak electricity demand. The third unit of the plant began commercial operations in February. Additionally, it generates up to 4,200 megawatts of clean electricity capacity to the grid.
China has 56 nuclear energy plants in operation already. However, It plans to invest $440 billion to build a further 150 reactors over the next 15 years. China’s nuclear energy expertise can aid UAE’s climate goals and economic growth.
The UAE’s commitment to clean energy and reducing carbon emissions aligns with its role as host of the upcoming COP28 climate summit. Furthermore, Continuing to expand its nuclear energy sector and collaborating with international partners are significant steps for the UAE in achieving its long-term sustainability objectives.
