The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant's last unit has been finished.
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) announced on Tuesday the completion of the fourth and final unit of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, marking a significant milestone for the largest single source of clean electricity in the Middle East. Upon readiness, Unit 4 is anticipated to generate 25% of the country's electricity needs for the next 60 years, contributing to the UAE's clean energy transition and the goal of achieving net zero by 2050.
Before reaching full fleet operations, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) will conduct safety tests as the next step in the process. Once connected to the national electricity grid, Unit 4's operations team will initiate Power Ascension Testing, gradually increasing power levels until maximum electricity production is achieved. The expected start-up for Unit 4 is early next year, ensuring that Barakah becomes fully operational.
Barakah's significance in the UAE's energy landscape is underscored by its role in preventing carbon emissions. Unit 1, which commenced commercial operations in April 2021, prevented the release of over five million tonnes of carbon emissions in its first year alone, equivalent to the environmental impact of more than one million cars driven for a year. By 2025, the Barakah plant aims to contribute 85% of Abu Dhabi's clean electricity and lead in reducing the national power sector's carbon emissions. FANR had previously issued operating licenses for Barakah's Unit 1 in February 2020 and Unit 2 in March 2021.
