Agneta Rising
Director General, World Nuclear Association (2014-2020)
The UAE is the first nation in the Arab world to use nuclear technology to meet its energy needs. Over the next few years, as all four units are brought online, output will increase to provide 25% of the UAE’s electricity demand, demonstrating how nuclear technology can deliver rapid, large-scale decarbonization. Other countries will look to the UAE and learn from their foresightedness to invest in nuclear to build their sustainable infrastructure and provide highly-skilled jobs for decades to come.
Maria G. Korsnick
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Nuclear Energy Institute
Achieving operations just eight years from the start of construction demonstrates how a country can expand its supply of carbon-free electricity safely and efficiently, to meet our global need for more clean energy. And as the first commercial nuclear power plant in the Arab world, Barakah is an example for the entire region of how peaceful nuclear energy can diversify countries’ energy portfolios and economies.
HANS BLIX
Director-General Emeritus of the IAEA
As former Chairman of the International Advisory Board for the Barakah project, I take joy in congratulating the people and government of Abu Dhabi for turning to modern science and technology for development. The prudent and professional way I have seen the project pursued by the government and the responsible organizations inspires respect and confidence. They have made full use of the world’s extensive nuclear experience – from the knowledge of the Korean constructors to advice, reviews and services by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the World Association of Nuclear Operators and others.
ERNEST MONIZ
Co-Chairman of Nuclear Threat Initiative, Former United States Secretary for Energy
Congratulations to Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) & Korean Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) for safely launching UAE Gov’s first nuclear energy plant - demonstrating that making significant non-proliferation commitments at the outset can help spell success for new, peaceful nuclear energy programs.
RAFAEL MARIANO GROSSI
Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency
Congratulations UAE for achieving first criticality of Unit 1 of Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supports the UAE & other countries that opt for introducing nuclear power, which plays a key role in achieving clean & affordable energy and in tackling climate change.
WILLIAM D. MAGWOOD, IV
Director-General, OECD Nuclear Energy Agency
The UAE’s successful implementation of a new nuclear programme is a great accomplishment that demonstrates both that new nuclear plants can be built on schedule and within projected costs and that a country without a long history in nuclear energy can rapidly establish a safe and effective nuclear power infrastructure. Not only has the UAE brought the Barakah plant to criticality, but it has taken comprehensive and very impressive steps toward developing a skilled workforce of highly motivated men and women who will ensure safe and reliable nuclear operations decades to come.
NUCLEAR THREAT INITIATIVE (NTI)
Congratulations to Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) & Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) for safe startup of Unit 1 of Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant! This historic milestone began with significant sovereign non-proliferation commitments. The UAE offers important leadership in showing how nuclear power can advance safely and without nuclear proliferation dangers.