Looking to diversify its energy needs, Abu Dhabi announced it expects to break ground on a third nuclear power plant this year. The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) announced the updates on current projects during the World Future Energy Summit.
With two plants currently under construction, and a third expected later this year, the UAE is keen to transition into low-carbon technologies.
Speaking about the role of clean technology in the Emirates, Dr Kenneth Petrunik, CEO advisor, ENEC said, “ENEC has spent the last four years working to develop a safe, reliable and efficient nuclear energy programme for the UAE.”
By 2020, the UAE is expected to have four plants in commercial operation, producing 5,600MW of clean electricity. Expected to meet a quarter of the country’s energy needs, the initiative is also expected to save the UAE 12 million tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions every year.
ENEC is also hosting public forums throughout the country to raise community awareness about the initiative and build confidence in the programme. According to current research figures, Dr Petrunik says 80 per cent of the UAE population believes that nuclear energy is important to the nation.
“There are many more benefits to a world-class nuclear energy programme. These include the economic growth and development of a new, high-tech industry, job creation and enhanced training and development programmes with world-leading academic institutions,” added Dr Petrunik.
