In a historic moment for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) has granted the operating license for the fourth and final reactor of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. The license, with a duration of 60 years, has been issued to Nawah Energy Company (Nawah), responsible for the operation of the plant.
Hamad Al Kaabi, UAE’s Permanent Representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and deputy chairman of the Board of Management of the FANR, expressed the significance of the achievement, stating, “Today marks a historic moment for the UAE, where it realized its vision that started 15 years ago in developing the-first-in-the-region peaceful nuclear energy program.”
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FANR had previously issued operating licenses for Unit 1, Unit 2, and Unit 3 in February 2020, March 2021, and June 2022, respectively. The regulatory authority will continue its oversight throughout the entire operational period of the four units. The third unit officially commenced commercial operations in February of the current year.
“The UAE Nuclear Programme will play a key role in providing 25 per cent of clean energy; hence, supporting the UAE Government’s efforts to achieve its 2050 Net Zero Goals,” highlighted Al Kaabi during a press conference.
The success of the UAE’s Nuclear Energy Program is underscored by its adherence to international nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation standards, positioning the country as a role model for nations developing similar programs, according to Al Kaabi.
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Next Steps: Following the issuance of the operating license for Unit 4, Nawah will enter a commissioning period to prepare for commercial operation. FANR will conduct round-the-clock inspections, led by resident inspectors at the plant and additional inspectors, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements during the fuel load and power accession processes.
The operating license application for Unit 4 underwent a thorough assessment process conducted by a team comprising 90 per cent Emirati nuclear experts, showcasing FANR’s success in building the capability and skills of its nationals to regulate the nuclear sector.
In the past decade, the UAE underwent 12 major peer review missions from the IAEA, ensuring the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation. Reports from these IAEA missions are publicly available, contributing to transparency and accountability in the nation’s nuclear endeavors.
