The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) has announced that significant progress has been made on the construction of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, with the installation of the steam generators for Unit 4, the final unit at the plant. This milestone event coincides with the successful installation of Unit 4's reactor vessel (RV).

Jassim Mohammed Buatabh Al Zaabi, chairman of the executive committee office and member of the executive council, led a delegation of the General Secretariat of the Executive Council (GSEC) to a commemoration ceremony in Barakah, the world's largest nuclear energy construction site. The delegation was hosted by Khaldoon Al Mubarak, chairman of the board of directors of Enec; Mohamed Al Hammadi, Enec CEO; and Ahn Choong-yong, Korea Electric Power Corporation chairman of the board of directors, along with Enec, Nawah and Barakah One Company executives.

The delegation from the GSEC included Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, chairman of the department of municipal affairs and transport and a member of the executive council; Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, chairman of the department of economic development and a member of the executive council; and representatives of strategic stakeholders.

During the event, the delegates took part in a signing ceremony as well as tour of the site, which highlighted Enec's focus on quality and safety during construction and nuclear operational readiness activities in preparation for the units to start generating electricity.

Speaking on the announcement, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: "The UAE's peaceful nuclear energy programme supports the Abu Dhabi Plan by contributing to a diversified energy mix and sustainable, long-term economic growth. The installation of the final reactor vessel and steam generators, as per the 2009 Prime Contract, is a great achievement.

"I am proud of the unwavering commitment and professionalism demonstrated by the entire team. From our Emirati engineers to our international experts and Korean partners, the focus has remained on quality, safety and efficiency throughout this development process," Al Mubarak added.

Jassim Mohammed Buatabh Al Zaabi said: "I am proud to be here in Barakah today to witness this extraordinary milestone in the UAE peaceful nuclear energy programme. Nuclear energy plays a strategic role for the future of our nation, enabling economic and industrial growth, as well as careers in nuclear energy for Emirati youth."

The delegation concluded the visit with a signing ceremony inside Unit 4, where they observed the installation of the steam generators.

According to Mohamed Al Hammadi, the achievements are showcasing the UAE's commitment to delivering a world-class nuclear energy programme, from construction through to operations. "The successful installation of the final reactor vessel and steam generators for the Barakah Plant is a testament to the dedication of our teams towards the previous milestones and for the upcoming plans."

Source: Khaleej Times