ENEC and Framatome Sign Fuel Deal to Strengthen Barakah Nuclear Plant’s Supply Chain

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has signed an agreement with Framatome to supply nuclear fuel assemblies and engineering services for the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the UAE. The deal supports ENEC’s strategy to diversify its fuel supply chain, reinforcing energy security and ensuring continuous, carbon‑free electricity across the country.

Under the contract, Framatome will provide complete fuel assemblies for Barakah, leveraging its decades of manufacturing experience and technical expertise. ENEC CEO Mohamed Al Hammadi said the partnership will enhance the reliability and resilience of the plant’s fuel supply, underpinning safe, clean, and dependable power for the UAE’s economy. Framatome CEO Grégoire Ponchon highlighted the company’s advanced fuel technologies and proven service track record.

Fuel fabrication will take place at Framatome’s U.S. facility, licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and recognized with the NRC’s highest Licensee Performance Review rating for 18 consecutive years. Framatome has more than 40 years of experience supplying fuel for Combustion Engineering reactor designs like those at Barakah, with over 6,000 assemblies delivered.

Barakah, the region’s first multi‑unit nuclear power station, comprises four APR‑1400 reactors and is the largest single source of clean electricity in the Middle East. ENEC continues to pursue strategic opportunities to support the global civil nuclear sector while maintaining Barakah as a cornerstone of the UAE’s energy mix.