Nuclear power generation in the United Arab Emirates: history, technologies and innovative projects

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a Middle Eastern country rich in energy resources, particularly oil and natural gas. However, due to growing energy demand and environmental concerns, the country is seeking to diversify its electricity sources. In 2021, the breakdown of electricity generation in the UAE was mainly based on fossil fuels, with 98% coming from natural gas and only 2% from renewables [1]. This article examines the history of nuclear power generation in the UAE, the nuclear reactor technologies used and innovative power plant and reactor projects.

History of nuclear power generation in the UAE

Nuclear power generation in the UAE is a relatively recent development. The country began its nuclear journey in 2008, when the government announced plans to develop a peaceful nuclear program [2]. This decision was motivated by several factors, including rapid growth in energy demand, the need to diversify the energy mix and a commitment to sustainable development.

In 2009, the Federal Nuclear Regulatory Authority (FANR) was created to oversee and regulate the country’s nuclear industry [3]. In 2012, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) was chosen to build the country’s first nuclear power plant, the Barakah plant [4].

Nuclear reactor technologies used in the United Arab Emirates

The Barakah nuclear power plant, located in the Al Dhafra region, is equipped with four APR-1400 (Advanced Power Reactor 1400) nuclear reactors, a technology developed in South Korea [5]. These reactors are third-generation pressurized water reactors (PWRs), designed to offer improved safety, increased efficiency and extended service life.

The APR-1400 has a power generation capacity of around 1,400 megawatts of electricity (MWe) per unit, meaning that the Barakah plant will have a total capacity of around 5,600 MWe once all four reactors are fully operational [6]. This capacity will represent around 25% of the country’s total electricity demand [7].

Innovative power plant and reactor projects

The Barakah power plant is the main nuclear project under development in the UAE. The first of four reactors, Barakah Unit 1, was connected to the grid in August 2020 and became fully operational in December 2020 [8]. The

three other reactors are currently under construction and commissioning. Unit 2 received commissioning approval from the FANR in March 2021 and is scheduled to start operating shortly [9]. Units 3 and 4 are also under construction, with commissioning scheduled for 2023 and 2024 respectively [10].

In addition to the Barakah plant, the UAE has also expressed interest in developing fast neutron reactors and advanced modular reactors (SMRs) [11]. SMRs are small-scale nuclear reactors that offer advantages in terms of flexibility, lower construction costs and the ability to be deployed in less accessible areas. These technologies could enable the UAE to further diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

In addition, the country is also investing in renewable energy research and development, such as solar and wind power, and exploring energy storage solutions to support the integration of these intermittent energy sources [12].

Countries producing nuclear power

  1. United States: 94,718 GW
  2. France: 61,370 GW
  3. China: 53,170 GW
  4. Russia: 27,727 GW
  5. South Korea: 24,489 GW
  6. Japan: 16,321 GW
  7. Canada: 13,624 GW
  8. Ukraine: 13,107 GW

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