The Barakah plant, which means “blessing” in Arabic, began its operations in 2020 with the launch of its first reactor
DUBAI: On Thursday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked a milestone in the Arab world with the completion of its first nuclear power plant, the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. This development is being hailed as a significant leap forward in the UAE’s energy strategy, which is focused on achieving sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, located in Abu Dhabi, is now fully operational with all four of its reactors in service.
The plant is set to generate an impressive 40 terawatt-hours of electricity annually, accounting for approximately 25 percent of the UAE’s electricity needs. This amount is comparable to the total annual electricity consumption of New Zealand. The plant’s output will play a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the UAE, particularly in powering key industrial entities such as the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Emirates Steel, and Emirates Global Aluminium.
The completion of Barakah represents a landmark achievement for the UAE, a nation historically known for its vast oil reserves. Despite its rich oil resources, the UAE has embarked on a strategic shift towards diversified energy sources. The Barakah plant, which means “blessing” in Arabic, began its operations in 2020 with the launch of its first reactor. Since then, it has progressively brought its additional reactors online, culminating in this full operational status.
Emirati President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the completion of the Barakah plant as a “significant step on the journey towards net zero.” In a statement on social media, he emphasized the UAE’s commitment to energy security and sustainability, reflecting the nation’s broader goals for future energy management and environmental stewardship.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has noted that the Barakah plant will require decommissioning at the end of its operational life, which is anticipated to be in around 60 to 80 years. This long-term view underscores the UAE’s commitment to ensuring that its nuclear energy infrastructure remains safe and sustainable throughout its operational lifespan. The UAE’s move into nuclear energy is part of a broader strategy to transition away from fossil fuels and increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix.
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