SEOUL, South Korea – The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hyundai Engineering & Construction (HEC) in Seoul on Monday to explore joint opportunities in the global nuclear energy sector and accelerate the development and use of clean energy through innovation in the nuclear energy sector.
This cooperation builds on the strategic partnership between the UAE and the Republic of Korea in the nuclear energy sector and supports the two countries’ shared goals of developing peaceful nuclear energy, in line with the International Energy Agency’s and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) estimates of a significant increase in nuclear energy production capacity worldwide by 2030 and 2050, respectively.
The memorandum of understanding between the two companies provides a comprehensive framework for exchanging knowledge and expertise, jointly evaluating potential cooperation in nuclear energy projects, and assessing strategic investment opportunities. The memorandum also includes the formation of a joint working group to identify areas of common interest and support the development of future nuclear energy initiatives.
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has embarked on a new phase of its journey, which includes investment, cooperation, and consultations on large nuclear reactors, in addition to developing new nuclear technologies locally and internationally. With all Barakah Nuclear Energy Plants now fully operational, the company is focused on collaborating with global partners to support the acceleration of nuclear energy deployment. It is committed to working with all responsible parties looking to develop and use new nuclear reactors or expand its nuclear energy production capacity. The memoranda of understanding with companies such as Hyundai Engineering & Construction are clear evidence of this approach.
Hyundai E&C was the prime contractor during the construction phase of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant and a trusted contributor to the UAE’s peaceful nuclear energy program, which has now become a global model for developing safe and efficient nuclear energy projects.
The signing of the MoU follows a series of agreements between the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and leading global nuclear power plant operators, technology developers, and energy companies. These partnerships are an integral part of the company’s broader focus on identifying investment and collaboration opportunities to support the rapid implementation of peaceful nuclear energy projects and enhance energy security and sustainability by providing clean baseload electricity.
The remarkable success of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant development has earned Hyundai E&C widespread acclaim from the global nuclear energy industry for its outstanding management and construction performance. As the UAE and the Republic of Korea strengthen their commitment to future cooperation in the energy sector, including nuclear energy, Hyundai E&C plans to expand its strategic cooperation with the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), leveraging the trust and expertise gained during the Barakah Plant development process.