UAE Operates First Nuclear Power Plant In The Arab World (Photos)

The plant is expected to meet 25 percent of the country's electricity needs.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has successfully launched an operation in Baraka, the first nuclear power plant in the Arab world.

The 1st Unit of Baraka Nuclear Power Plant was commissioned by Nawah Energy Company. The power plant consists of four nuclear reactors.

UAE Prime Minister and Emir of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktum, said on his Twitter account:

 "The teams successfully loaded nuclear fuel and carried out extensive tests. I congratulate my brother Muhammed bin Zayed for this success." 

 

According to the Arab News site, Unit 1 will be ready to connect to the UAE's power grid to supply electricity to homes and businesses after safety testing.

UAE became the first country to develop nuclear power plants in the Arab world and the 33rd country in the world.

It is noted that the power plant, which is targeted to supply 25 percent of the country's electricity needs, will produce 5.6 gigawatts of electricity when it operates at full capacity and will prevent the emission of more than 21 million tons of carbon emissions every year.