UAE says to explore nuclear energy for electricity

The United Arab Emirates says it will establish a $100 million agency to look into developing nuclear energy to satisfy rising electricity demand in the Gulf oil exporter on Iran’s doorstep. “Analysis of future domestic electricity demand … has concluded that peaceful nuclear power generation represents an environmentally promising and commercially competitive option which could make a significant contribution to the UAE’s economy and future energy security,” a government statement carried by the official WAM news agency said.
“The UAE intends to establish a Nuclear Energy Implementation Organisation … and is proceeding to evaluate the establishment of a peaceful nuclear programme.”

Gulf Arab states — among the world’s largest oil and gas producers — are considering nuclear power as they look to meet escalating domestic electricity demand without burning more fuel and eating into record export revenues.

Reuters