The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi, achieved a significant milestone when the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) officially issued the operational license for the fourth and final reactor. This marked the comprehensive commencement of commercial operations and laid the foundation for 60 years of clean energy.
The operational license granted by FANR empowers Nawah Energy Company to commission and operate Reactor 4. Hamad Al Kaabi, the UAE’s representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Deputy Chairman of the FANR Management Board, described this historic moment as the realization of a vision initiated 15 years ago to develop the region’s first peaceful nuclear energy program.
Previously, FANR issued operational licenses for Reactors 1, 2, and 3 in February 2020, March 2021, and June 2022, respectively. FANR will continue to supervise all four reactors throughout their operational periods, with the commercial operation of Reactor 3 officially commencing in February of this year.
The issuance of the operational license for Reactor 4 is a significant achievement in FANR’s efforts since receiving Nawah’s application for operational licenses in 2017. Thorough evaluation of the application documents and robust regulatory oversight in safety, security, and safeguards measures demonstrate FANR’s success in building a local regulatory body and ensuring its safe operation.
Hamad Al Kaabi stated, “The success of the UAE’s nuclear program and the capacity delivered within a record timeframe uphold the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation, making the country an exemplary model for many nations embarking on nuclear energy programs.”
Following issuing the operational license for Reactor 4, Nawah will conduct a commissioning period to prepare for commercial operation. FANR will conduct round-the-clock inspections, led by resident inspectors at the plant, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements during the fuel loading and power ascension processes.
Christer Viktorsson, Director-General of FANR, highlighted, “The review of the operational license application for Reactor 4 was conducted by a team composed of 90% UAE nuclear experts, underscoring FANR’s success in cultivating local expertise for the regulatory oversight and safe operation of the nuclear sector.”
Looking ahead, the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant will play a crucial role in providing 25% of clean energy, supporting the UAE government’s efforts to achieve its 2050 net-zero goals. The successful operation further solidifies the UAE’s leadership position in international nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation standards, setting a benchmark for many countries venturing into nuclear energy programs.
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