Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH) have formalized a partnership at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi to assess the international deployment of the BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.
According to Emirates News Agency, this agreement builds upon a previous collaboration established in 2023 at COP28 UAE. The aim is to integrate the technology into ENEC’s ADVANCE programme, which focuses on advanced nuclear technology.
Nuclear energy is increasingly recognized as vital for meeting the surging demand for sustainable and reliable power. This demand spans various sectors, including tech companies looking to power data centers for growth in AI and technology fields.
The signing took place during a private ceremony at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi. Mohamed Al Hammadi, Managing Director and CEO of ENEC, and Mav Zingoni, CEO of GE Vernova’s Power segment, exchanged agreements to explore international deployment opportunities. Their collaboration will focus on developing a roadmap that includes site identification, licensing, investment strategies, and supply chain development.
Mohamed Al Hammadi expressed his enthusiasm: “As we continue to power the UAE with clean, baseload electricity, we are thrilled to enhance our cooperation with GE Vernova Hitachi. This agreement will leverage our combined expertise to establish a clear deployment roadmap, ensuring safe and efficient nuclear delivery.”
Mav Zingoni added, “Small modular reactors are pivotal for an energy-secure future. We are delighted to advance our collaboration with ENEC, as the UAE aims to pioneer nuclear innovation. With the first BWRX-300 progressing in Canada, our partnership with ENEC strengthens our ability to deliver this technology.”
ENEC, operator of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, contributes 25% of the UAE’s energy through nuclear power. The company aligns with US operating standards and boasts extensive experience in nuclear deployment and financing.
GE Vernova’s Nuclear Power business, through its alliance with Hitachi, is a leader in nuclear fuel and reactor designs. The BWRX-300, approved for deployment in Ontario, Canada, will be the first SMR built in the Western world, marking significant progress in nuclear innovation.
Both ENEC and GE Vernova Hitachi will now collaboratively develop a roadmap for the BWRX-300’s deployment, as part of ENEC’s ADVANCE Program. This initiative aims to accelerate next-generation nuclear technology evaluation and deployment.
Beyond Barakah, ENEC is committed to exploring nuclear energy opportunities globally, promoting energy security and sustainability through clean electricity solutions.
