The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (TENEC) has updated that Unit 3 of the Abu Dhabi-based Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is now safely connected to the factory unit’s transmission grid and the first megawatt of carbon-free electricity has been delivered from the third of the plant’s four units.
Unit 3 will bring an additional 1,400 MW of zero carbon emission electricity capacity to the national grid, in order to address climate change, which is one of the main concerns confronting the globe today. This will be a significant improvement in the UAE’s energy security and sustainability.
Barakah is advancing the decarbonization of the power sector and it is a crucial part of the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Units 1 and 2 are now in commercial operation, producing clean electricity every minute of the day, and Unit 3 will immediately start commercial operations.
The nuclear sector as a whole is a vital part of the UAE’s clean energy system and multiple low-carbon technologies, ensuring the reliability, efficiency and resilience of the UAE grid for at least the next 60 years.
Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi CEO – ENEC
“Our leadership’s long-term vision and decisions more than 13 years ago are paying dividends today as we celebrate another proud moment for the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program. Connecting Unit 3 to the UAE transmission grid adds thousands more megawatts of clean electricity to power all aspects of society, replaces the need to burn US$4bn worth of gas which can be diverted for export, and through Clean Energy Certification, gives many companies in the UAE a unique competitive advantage. I am proud of our Emirati-led teams who continue to showcase world-class levels of capability, knowledge and expertise – powering a Net Zero economy through their work. Congratulations to everyone who has helped make these achievements a reality.”
The plant demonstrates how nuclear power projects can be delivered safely, successfully and competitively to meet rising carbon emissions. Through the clean electricity generated in Barakah, nuclear helps decarbonize some of the most available sectors.
Nuclear also enables the UAE to divert high-value Liquefied Natural Gas fuels for export, increasing the availability of national funds for international investment to increase economic diversification.
