Nuclear – Atomic plant in Western Region powers ahead of schedule

November 21

The UAE’s nuclear energy programme passed many milestones this year, as work began on the construction of the world’s first new nuclear power plant since 1985.

Six nuclear deals have been signed by the Emirates, most recently with Russia, Canada and Australia.

The outgoing South Korean president, Lee Myung-bak, toured the site of the plant in Barakah, in the Western Region, on November 21, marking the completion of almost a quarter of construction work eight weeks ahead of schedule.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and president Lee were present at a ceremonial groundbreaking at the site.

The US$20 billion (Dh73.47bn) project led by the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) will build four nuclear reactors, with the first expected to be operational in 2017.