Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation, Rosatom, which is constructing the $30billion El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in the Republic of Egypt, has commenced the installation of the core catcher body of the project, signifying Russia’s commitment to completing the project.
The core catcher is one of the main elements of the passive safety systems. The cargo with components was delivered from Russia to the sea port of the El-Dabaa construction site on July 1, 2024, within 6 days.
El-Dabaa NPP is the first nuclear power plant in Egypt and Africa’s sole newly constructed NPP at the moment.
It is being built in the city of El-Dabaa, approximately 300 km north-west from Cairo.
The NPP will consist of four power units, 1200 MW each, with pressurised water reactors of Russian class VVER-1200. This is an evolutionary design which fully complies with all international safety requirements and has the potential to revolutionise the energy landscape of the entire African continent.
The official ceremony dedicated to the commencement of the core catcher installation was attended by Dr. Amged El-Wakeel, Board Chairman of Nuclear Power Plants Authority of Egypt, and Alexey Kononenko, ASE JSC Vice President – Director of El-Dabaa NPP Construction Project.
“Today, we are glad to note the completion of another milestone for this year. Works on the core catcher installation at Unit 3 started in accordance with the schedule. It would be impossible without comprehensive cooperation of the Egyptian Owner and the General Contractor. I would like to express profound gratitude to everyone who put their efforts in the achievement of this production stage in our project. We are looking into the future with confidence and going on with the construction of the safest and most up-to-date NPP in the world!” said Alexey Kononenko, ASE JSC Vice President – Director of El-Dabaa NPP Construction Project.
Dr. Amged El-Wakeel, Board Chairman of the Nuclear Power Plants Authority of Egypt, stated: “Egypt prioritises nuclear security and safety. The core catcher is one of the main elements in the safety systems of the El-Dabaa nuclear power plant, reflecting the highest levels of nuclear safety to ensure the safe and continuous operation of the plant. It is a unique safety system, installed under the reactor vessel’s base, to enhance the safety of the nuclear power plant”.
Nuclear energy holds significant importance for Egypt and the entire African continent, offering a reliable and sustainable solution to the growing demand for energy. In Egypt, the El-Dabaa NPP represents a crucial step toward diversifying the country’s energy mix. For Africa, nuclear energy can play a transformative role in fostering economic growth, industrialisation, and technological development.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com