Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 29, The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) during a visit to Seoul, South Korea. The agreement, signed by ENEC Managing Director and CEO Mohamed Al Hammadi and Hyundai E&C CEO Lee Han-woo, aims to explore international nuclear energy opportunities. This follows ENEC’s recent MoU with Westinghouse to accelerate the deployment of AP1000 reactors.
The MoU with Hyundai E&C establishes a framework for knowledge sharing, joint project evaluations, and strategic investment opportunities. A joint working group will identify areas of mutual interest to support future nuclear energy initiatives. Hyundai E&C, the lead contractor for the UAE’s four-unit Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, brings extensive experience to the partnership.
A Hyundai E&C spokesperson stated: “This MoU is very meaningful in that it provides a practical foundation for seeking cooperation opportunities with ENEC on global nuclear power projects. We will continue to discover new nuclear power plant projects in various regions, including the Middle East, North America, Asia, and Europe, and strengthen our global competitiveness in the future.”
The collaboration builds on the long-standing partnership between the UAE and South Korea in the nuclear sector. It aligns with projections from the International Energy Agency and International Atomic Energy Agency for significant global nuclear capacity growth by 2030 and 2050. ENEC emphasized that the MoU supports its role in fostering international nuclear partnerships to enable faster, safer, and more cost-effective deployment of nuclear technologies worldwide.
ENEC also highlighted its focus on advancing nuclear energy through investments and collaborations. With the Barakah plant fully operational, ENEC is working with global partners to support nuclear deployment in countries seeking to develop or expand their nuclear energy programs. The agreement with Hyundai E&C exemplifies this approach.
ENEC also signed an MoU with Westinghouse to explore collaboration on AP1000 reactor deployment in the United States. Mohamed Al Hammadi said: “With ENEC’s proven track record in developing one of the world’s most advanced nuclear energy programmes, our collaboration with Westinghouse brings together two leaders in our fields. This marks a significant step in supporting the United States’ bold ambitions to rapidly expand its nuclear fleet, reinforcing the deep and long-standing energy partnership between the UAE and the United States.”
The Westinghouse MoU focuses on leveraging ENEC’s expertise in large-scale nuclear development and Westinghouse’s advanced technologies to accelerate reactor deployment, enhance fuel supply chains, and improve operations and maintenance services.
