Enec denies plans for more nuclear contracts

Abu Dhabi Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (Enec) Wednesday ruled out any new contracts for the development of nuclear power stations.

"Enec does not have any other contract in place, nor has it tendered any other contract for delivery of additional nuclear energy plants other than the four APR 1400 units," an Enec spokesperson said.

The spokesperson explained: "Enec is focused on delivering a safe, peaceful nuclear energy programme through its prime contract with Kepco [Korea Electric Power Corp]. Under the contract, which was signed in 2009, Enec and Kepco are working on the design and construction of four APR 1400 reactors to deliver safe, efficient, clean and reliable electricity to the UAE starting in 2017."

Kim Joong-kyum, president and chief executive of Kepco, was quoted by Reuters as saying that talks with the UAE on a new deal for four nuclear power plants will kick off in 2013.

Enec, the newly formed body that is in charge of implementing the country's ambitious civilian nuclear programme, has awarded a contract worth $20 billion (Dh73.5 billion) to a consortium led by Kepco to design, build and operate the four new nuclear power plants the UAE is planning to set up by 2020.

Better equipped

The decision to select Kepco followed a thorough and comprehensive review of all three bids presented by global suppliers, operators and construction companies in the nuclear energy field, with Enec deciding that Kepco was better-equipped to fulfil the standards set by the government for this ambitious project.