Nuclear energy vital to achieving global climate change ambitions

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) is participating at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2014, one of the foremost global events dedicated to renewable energies, energy efficiency and clean technologies. Running in Abu Dhabi from January 20 - 22, 2014, the event is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. "The World Future Energy Summit is an important platform to discuss global energy solutions and allows energy leaders from around the world the opportunity to share their experiences and best practices," said Mohamed Al Hammadi, ENEC's Chief Executive Officer. ENEC is working to deliver a world-class peaceful nuclear energy program to the UAE. By 2020, four nuclear energy plants will be generating up to a quarter of the nation's electricity supply. The first two plants are already under construction, with the first unit set to commence commercial operations in 2017, subject to further regulatory approvals. "As a viable source of abundant and clean electricity, nuclear energy is a critical part of the solution to the global energy challenge. In the UAE, nuclear energy will play a critical role in helping our nation achieve its ambitions for climate change, energy sustainability and security," continued Mr. Al Hammadi. ENEC will be participating in the WFES panel discussion entitled ?Nuclear energy - a role to play in a sustainable energy future'. The panel will discuss how global opinion about nuclear energy is evolving and if nuclear energy is resuming its place as a key electricity generation technology supporting the transition to a low carbon future. ENEC will also be talking to potential candidates about its Energy Pioneers program, which aims to attract and train the country's most talented science students and experienced professionals, and provide them with an opportunity to become pioneers of the emerging nuclear energy sector. To date the Energy Pioneers program has attracted more than 280 UAE students to its scholarship programs. "One of the key challenges in entering a new industry is finding the right talent to operate and develop that industry. ENEC has been focusing on this since the very beginning. Our Energy Pioneers program is nurturing the UAE's nuclear energy leaders of tomorrow," said Mr. Al Hammadi. ENEC has recently announced the achievement of a milestone for Barakah Unit 1, the completion of the fabrication and installation of the Containment Liner Plate (CLP) in the Reactor Containment Building. Barakah Unit 2 is also well under way and will take five years to construct, with the plant scheduled to enter commercial operation in 2018, pending regulatory approval. ENEC will apply for an Operating License for Units 1 and 2 in 2015. With four plants operational by 2020, nuclear energy will deliver up to a quarter of the UAE's electricity needs, while saving up to 12 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year. ENEC is participating as a Privilege Club member at the Summit and can be visited at Stand 5105.