UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant Celebrates First Year Of Full-Fleet Operations And Clean Power Generation

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) commemorates the first anniversary of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant's full-fleet operations. All four APR1400 reactor units collectively supply 25% of the UAE's electricity, enhancing energy security and sustainability. Over the past year, Barakah has generated 40 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean electricity, supporting the nation's technology sectors, industries, and homes.

Since Unit 1 began operations, over 120 TWh of electricity has been produced, matching New York City's annual power demand. As the region's largest clean power source, Barakah is crucial in decarbonising the UAE's power sector. The plant is internationally recognised for its efficient and timely construction, showcasing that large-scale nuclear projects can be delivered safely and transparently.

Barakah significantly aids the UAE's energy transition by preventing 22.4 million tons of carbon emissions annually. Since Unit 1 started operations, more than 58 million metric tons of carbon emissions have been avoided, equivalent to removing about 12 million cars from roads. In five years, the UAE has added more clean electricity per capita than any other nation, with Barakah contributing 75% of this clean energy.

The plant also supports UAE companies in reducing carbon footprints. About 85% of Abu Dhabi’s Clean Energy Certificates are backed by Barakah’s output. Companies like ADNOC, EMSTEEL, and EGA use these certificates to certify their products as low-carbon. EGA recently launched its first delivery of low-carbon aluminium called MinimAL.

Construction at Barakah began in July 2012. By starting Unit 4 in 2015, it became the world's largest nuclear construction site with four identical reactors built simultaneously. Unit 4 was completed in December 2023 and began operations in September 2024. The project demonstrates a cost-effective approach with a 40% reduction in cost and time between Units 1 and 4.

The plant serves as a global example for new nuclear builds with an average delivery time of just under eight years per unit. This efficiency highlights that civil nuclear projects can be completed safely and effectively while maintaining transparency.

International Partnerships and Workforce Development

The Barakah Plant was developed with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) under the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR). It adheres to international standards set by IAEA and WANO. The project has fostered a skilled Emirati-led workforce with over 2,000 UAE Nationals involved alongside international experts.

Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and CEO of ENEC stated: "One year into full operations, Barakah Plant is delivering on its promise – clean, dependable power around the clock." He emphasised that this success stems from long-term vision and sustained investment.

Al Hammadi also noted that they are leveraging expertise through international partnerships to help other nations realise nuclear energy's role in meeting growing electricity demands.

With inputs from WAM