Egypt is currently examining six major nuclear projects to enhance its peaceful nuclear program and applications in areas such as water desalination, agriculture, medical treatment, and industry. These projects were discussed during President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's participation in the "Russia-Africa" summit with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. The talks included adding a new unit to the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, which currently has a capacity of 4800 megawatts.
The new unit at the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant would leverage the existing infrastructure for electricity transmission. Egypt is also in advanced talks to establish and localize small nuclear reactors and floating reactors. This would enable the country to expand its water desalination projects, combat desertification and water scarcity, and grow its agricultural projects and new cities.
Another project involves Egypt's partnership with Russia to utilize national capabilities and uranium discoveries to produce nuclear fuel. This aligns with the requirements of Egypt's peaceful nuclear program. The partnership also includes exploring mineral resources, particularly rare earth elements, and manufacturing them to meet domestic industry needs and export surpluses to global markets.
One of the significant projects Egypt plans to implement is the renewal of the first Russian research reactor. The reactor, which has been under periodic maintenance for over 15 years, was not refurbished or restarted due to high costs. President El-Sisi has directed the study of renewing the reactor and restarting it in collaboration with Russia.
The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority has prepared technical studies and executive procedures to develop the first research reactor at Inshas and restart it. The capacity of the reactor will be increased from 2 megawatts to 10 megawatts in cooperation with Russia and the International Atomic Energy Agency. A team of technical experts and specialists has examined the condition of all reactor components and prepared a comprehensive study.
The study includes the financial costs of rehabilitation and operation, as well as the lifespan of the reactor, which is expected to be at least 40 years. The reactor is considered one of the oldest Russian and global reactors still in good condition, allowing for efficient refurbishment and capacity increase. The International Atomic Energy Agency is currently supervising and inspecting the reactor during its shutdown.
Egypt was one of the first countries to enter the nuclear energy era with this reactor. The establishment of the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant requires more research reactors to qualify young people and human cadres and provide them with modern experiences. The refurbishment of the first reactor will be a significant addition to scientific research and the national economy, providing educational and training opportunities and producing essential materials for peaceful nuclear energy uses.
Key points
- Egypt is exploring six major nuclear projects to support its peaceful nuclear program and applications in various fields.
- The projects include adding a new unit to the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant and establishing small nuclear reactors and floating reactors.
- Egypt aims to utilize national capabilities and uranium discoveries to produce nuclear fuel and explore mineral resources.
