Agreement paves way for UAE grid to transmit sustainable electricity from nuclear energy generation
Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) recently signed the Connection & Interface Agreement (C&IA) with the Abu Dhabi Transmission & Despatch Company (TRANSCO). The agreement establishes a contractual operating framework between the two entities that will allow for the electricity generated from ENEC's four nuclear energy units located in Barakah to be transmitted over TRANSCO's power lines to the UAE grid.
The official contract was signed at TRANSCO's offices in Abu Dhabi by H.E. Mohamed Al Hammadi - ENEC CEO, and Mohammed Bin Jarsh - TRANSCO Acting Managing Director.
"This is a pivotal agreement and the result of hard work and a close collaboration between ENEC and TRANSCO", said Mohamed Al Hammadi, ENEC CEO. "Close working partnerships and relationships with our stakeholders are vital components for the success of ENEC's program and for the organization to continue to deliver each milestone of the UAE peaceful nuclear energy program, safely and to the highest international standards of quality. Thanks to TRANSCO's singular expertise, we are progressing efficiently and in a focused manner and have been able to sign the C&IA agreement that will allow for the nuclear energy plants in Barakah to safely supply the UAE with clean, reliable and sustainable electricity to power the nation."
Commenting on the agreement, Mohammed Bin Jarsh stated, "We are pleased to support ENEC in what is a strategically important development for the United Arab Emirates. Finalizing the Connection and Interface Agreement is a milestone event that signifies the commitment of TRANSCO to this project and its objectives."
The signing of this agreement allows ENEC to prepare for the energization of the switchyard, which is an important milestone for the UAE peaceful nuclear energy program and the delivery of the four nuclear energy reactors. The energization of an electrical infrastructure is a safety test performed under the supervision of qualified experts to examine new electric equipment and verify its conformity to the regulatory requirements. This important phase allows the equipment to be energized and for testing to be performed. Once the equipment is deemed satisfactory for normal service, the equipment is turned over to the system operator for normal service.
ENEC continues to progress safely and to the highest standards of quality in the delivery of the four nuclear energy units in Barakah. Unit 1 is now over 84% complete, Unit 2 is 64%, Unit 3 is 41% and Unit 4 25%. All four units and the associated subsidiary buildings are now over 58% complete and, pending regulatory approval, the four nuclear energy units are scheduled to be operative in 2020.
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About ENEC
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) is working to deliver safe, clean, efficient and reliable nuclear energy to the United Arab Emirates - energy that is needed to support the UAE's social and economic growth.
Established by decree in December 2009 by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, ENEC specializes in the deployment, ownership and operation of peaceful nuclear energy plants within the UAE. The UAE peaceful nuclear energy program is scheduled to be complete by 2020, when Unit 4 is connected to the grid and provide the UAE with emissions-free electricity to power the future growth of the nation.
Driven by a Culture of Safety, ENEC's overriding priority is ensuring the safety of the UAE community, employees and the environment.
For more information, visit www.enec.gov.ae.
Media Contact:
enec@fourcommunications.com
media@enec.gov.ae
© Press Release 2016
