UAE Prime Minister

FANR receives two licence applications from ENEC

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), the UAE's regulator for the nuclear sector, has received from the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), two licence applications: a "Site Preparation Licence Application" for the preparation of ENEC's preferred site for the construction of a nuclear facility, and a "Limited Construction Licence Application" to manufacture and assemble nuclear components for the UAE nuclear power plant.

A "Site Preparation Licence" is required according to the UAE Nuclear Law to conduct site preparation activities in the country, such as the installation of infrastructures to support construction, and construction of portions of the facility not related to nuclear safety.

A "Limited Construction Licence" is required to authorize ENEC and its Prime Contractor to manufacture and assemble structures, systems and components, such as reactor pressure vessel, steam generators, coolant pumps and other components important to safety of the nuclear power plant. Due to the long lead time for these processes, ENEC has decided to apply for this licence at this early stage.

Before granting the two licences, FANR will review and assess the information submitted by ENEC to ensure that the information obtained is accurate and sufficient to enable confirmation of compliance with FANR requirements.

FANR's Board granted ENEC on 23 February 2010 a licence for the "Selection of a Site for the Construction of a Nuclear Facility". The activities of ENEC on this matter continue, but have led ENEC to identify a preferred site. Dr William D. Travers, FANR's Director General, noted that ENEC's site evaluation process is being carried out in accordance with the UAE Nuclear Law, and guidance provided by FANR. He also noted that FANR's final decision as to whether or not ENEC's preferred site is an appropriate location for the nuclear power plants will not be made until ENEC submits the "Construction Licence Application" later this year.

Finally, Dr. Travers emphasized that the limited construction licence, when issued, will not authorize the placement or assembly of manufactured components in their final location in the UAE.

FANR will collaborate closely with other government agencies during this particular stage, including the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), from whom ENEC must also obtain a Construction Environmental Permit for the proposed non-nuclear activities.