2021 has been a remarkable year
for the United Arab Emirates: In April, Unit 1 of Barakah Nuclear Power Plant
has become commercially operating and being the largest source of electricity
generation in the country. In addition, Unit 2 of Barakah received the
operating license and is undergoing all necessary tests in preparation for
commercial operation. In all, FANR is
overseeing such operations to ensure the safety and security of the power plant
as well as protection of the community, workers and the environment.
Barakah Nuclear Power Plant is
one of the UAE's mega projects. FANR has played a pivotal role in regulating
the power plant from construction to operation; thus, materializing the UAE's
government vision to diversify its sources of energy where nuclear energy will
provide 25% of UAE electricity once fully operational. The nuclear power plant
will provide 6% of power according to the UAE's 2050 Energy Strategy. FANR,
with its integrated regulatory infrastructure, succeeded in making the UAE the
first country in the Arab region to operate a peaceful nuclear power plant.
In licensing the nuclear power
plant from construction to operation to decommission, FANR developed an
integrated licensing methodology to ensure meet all regulatory requirements covering
safety, security and safeguards to protect the environment and community. FANR
developed regulations based on best international practices and adopted them
fit the UAE conditions in a short span of time. It developed a unique
collaboration with international partners to optimize the licensing process by
using international experts and those from Korean licensing authorities, having
a similar plant.
Furthermore, FANR conducted
in-depth review and incorporated lessons learned from the Fukushima Nuclear
Accident, approving 31 safety designs to Barakah. FANR is having around the
clock inspection using its resident inspectors at the sites. FANR also led the
development of security and safeguards programmes in line with international
practices and UAE's international obligations. FANR adopted a transparent
methodology where it hosed 12 review missions from the IAEA to review the UAE
Nuclear Energy Programme.
Following the operation of the Barakah Nuclear
Power Plant, FANR will continue the regulatory oversight activities to ensure
the safety and security of the nuclear power plant as well as the people and
the environment.