Korea-UAE Nuclear Power Plant Successfully Starts Operation of Fourth Reactor

The United Arab Emirates' fourth reactor at the Barakah nuclear power plant has now connected to the country's power grid. The Barakah plant is a key symbol of economic and energy cooperation between UAE and South Korea. KEPCO, the South Korean state-owned electric utility, announced that UAE's Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) had finished grid connection work for the fourth reactor on March 25, 2024. This means the fourth reactor can now supply electricity generated to households and industries in UAE. ENEC also noted that it will now begin subsequent testing processes for the fourth reactor, including power ramp-up tests, with the aim of achieving full commercial operations later this year.  

The successful grid connection of the fourth reactor marks the continued progress of the Barakah plant since construction first began in 2012. The first reactor achieved criticality in 2020, and the second and third reactors have also now entered commercial operations. Once all four APR-1400 reactors are fully operational, they will provide around 25% of UAE's total electricity needs, enhancing the country's energy security and independence. The $24.4 billion Barakah plant is being built by KEPCO and ENEC in collaboration, and represents the closest civil nuclear energy cooperation between Korea and another country to date. Upon completion, the plant will stand as a strong symbol of advanced technological and economic partnership between the two allies.

The latest milestone is also a confidence boost for KEPCO's overseas nuclear plant construction capabilities. As the main contractor for Barakah, KEPCO has proven it can deliver large nuclear projects even in very warm Gulf conditions, paving the way for potential future contracts. Both Korea and UAE will continue working towards starting commercial operations at the fourth Barakah reactor later this year, further cementing their strategic relationship in energy and other industries. The Barakah plant illustrates how international partnerships are key to advancing peaceful nuclear technology for electricity generation.