Nuclear-related contracts worth Dh9.15bn have been awarded to UAE firms, says Enec

Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation over the past five years awarded contracts to more than 1,100 local companies to work on the Barakah nuclear plant project in Abu Dhabi’s Western Region. Courtesy AShow more

More than Dh9.15 billion in contracts have been awarded to UAE companies for the construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant, according to the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec).

“An important factor in the UAE’s decision to pursue a peaceful nuclear energy programme was the opportunity to develop a new industrial sector to support the nation’s economic growth and diversification strategy,” said Mohamed Al Hammadi, the chief executive of Enec.

Along with its prime contractor Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco), Enec over the past five years awarded contracts to more than 1,100 local companies to work on the Barakah nuclear plant project in Abu Dhabi's Western Region.

Enec created an industrial development team that helped local firms to update their products over two years to meet the tender requirements for the nuclear energy programme.

These companies include Emirates Steel and the cable manufacturer Ducab.

As a result, the companies were also able to expand their business portfolio.

“We are aiming to maximise our supplies of nuclear-quality reinforcing steel bars to the Barakah plant to reach almost 180,000 to 200,000 tonnes until the year 2017,” said Saeed Al Romaithi, the chief executive of Emirates Steel. Ducab took the opportunity to customise the world’s first range of nuclear cables with certified 60-year lifespans.

“We intend to leverage our position to secure similar contracts in other advanced countries, who are looking to nuclear energy to meet growing demand,” said Ahmad Al Shaikh, Ducab’s chairman.

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