Mohamed Al Hammadi Appointed As First Arab And Asian Chair Of WANO-Atlanta Centre In Historic Move For UAE Nuclear Leadership

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has announced that Mohamed Al Hammadi, its Managing Director and Group CEO, is now the Chairman of the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO)-Atlanta Center in the U.S. This is a historic moment as he is the first Arab and Asian leader to hold this position, showcasing the UAE's expanding influence in civil nuclear energy.

Al Hammadi's appointment highlights ENEC's global contributions to nuclear safety and quality. He has been actively involved with WANO for over ten years, joining the Atlanta Center Governing Board in 2015 and serving as WANO President from 2022 to 2024. His leadership reflects international recognition of ENEC’s commitment to nuclear excellence.

ENEC is actively pursuing partnerships with U.S. industry leaders to advance civil nuclear deployment worldwide. Through agreements with companies like Westinghouse and GE Vernova, ENEC aims to explore joint development opportunities, including expanding the fuel supply chain and potential investments in nuclear projects.

The WANO-Atlanta Center unites member utilities operating over 100 commercial nuclear units across North America and selected international operators. This collaboration fosters alignment on performance, peer review, and operational experience, enhancing nuclear safety and reliability globally.

Mohamed Al Hammadi stated, "This appointment highlights our advanced Emirati expertise in the civil nuclear energy sector, which has been achieved thanks to the guidance and continuous support of the UAE Leadership. In this regard, we reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting all members as part of our ongoing efforts to achieve nuclear operational excellence."

ENEC's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the UAE is a testament to its success in new nuclear programs globally. The plant generates 40 TWh of clean electricity annually, meeting 25% of the UAE’s electricity needs. It stands as the largest electricity source in the region, powering industries, technology firms, and communities nationwide.

Future Prospects for Civil Nuclear Energy

The U.S. civil nuclear sector is experiencing renewed momentum due to recent federal actions and industry partnerships aimed at accelerating new plant deployments. ENEC's alignment with U.S. practices positions it well for collaboration on joint projects under U.S. NRC regulations.

Al Hammadi added, "Building on ENEC’s proven expertise in delivery and operations, I look forward to continuing our work with U.S. partners to accelerate nuclear deployment to the highest standards of nuclear quality, safety and reliability." This collaboration aims to enhance national energy security amid rising power demand.

ENEC continues leveraging its expertise through global partnerships by investing in civil nuclear energy initiatives worldwide. These efforts aim to realise the benefits of clean energy while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability across international borders.

With inputs from WAM