Egypt is one step closer to realizing its ambitious civilian nuclear program by installing the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) for Unit 2 at the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. This installation is significant, as it follows the successful placement of the same equipment for Unit 1 just seven months earlier, according to a statement by the Cabinet.
“It is another step toward completing one of the New Republic’s most important national projects and realizing Egypt’s long-standing goal of generating electricity through peaceful nuclear power,” Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly said on the sidelines of the ceremony held to celebrate the installation,
While stressing that the project is on schedule and aligns with international nuclear safety and quality standards,he pointed out the project is a cornerstone of Egypt Vision 2030, serving economic development, energy security, and efforts to combat climate change by diversifying the nation’s energy mix.
Located in Matrouh Governorate, the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant is Egypt’s first nuclear facility, being constructed in partnership with Russia’s state nuclear corporation (Rosatom). The plant will consist of four 1,200 megawatt (MW) water-water energy reactor (VVER)-1200 Generation III+ reactors, for a combined capacity of 4,800 MW. The reactor design is recognized as one of the most advanced and safest in commercial operation today.
Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom, noted, “The completion of the Unit 2 reactor vessel installation only seven months after Unit 1 demonstrates the accelerating pace of implementation,” adding that Unit 1 is expected to connect to Egypt’s grid in 2028, with the remaining three units following by 2030. Likhachev mentioned ongoing discussions about expanding cooperation into new technological fields, including nuclear-powered desalination.
Rafael Mariano Grossi, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, stressed the agency’s ongoing support for Egypt’s peaceful nuclear ambitions. “We are committed to working with Egypt to ensure the highest standards of safety and security as it develops its peaceful nuclear energy program,” he affirmed.
Mahmoud Esmat, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, said Unit 2’s installation marks a major milestone for energy security, sustainable development, and Egypt’s long-term strategy. He noted the importance of diversifying generation sources and leveraging cooperation with partners to further Egypt’s renewable and nuclear energy goals.
The installation of the reactor pressure vessel is a major marker in nuclear plant construction, signifying the project’s shift from civil engineering to intensive nuclear equipment assembly and commissioning. It underscores Egypt’s progress in building a diversified and sustainable energy future, reinforcing its strategic partnership with Russia and its commitment to international safety standards, according to the statement.
