The Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA) announced that the core catcher for the third nuclear unit at the Dabaa nuclear power plant was successfully installed on Sunday 6/10/2024.
NPAA, in collaboration with Russian general contractor Atomstroyexport, held an engineering event at the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant to mark the start of the core catcher installation.
During the event, NPAA Chairman Amged El-Wakeel gave the official go-ahead for Atomstroyexport to begin work. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from NPAA and both project teams.
In his speech, El-Wakeel highlighted that this day was chosen to celebrate key project milestones each year, drawing inspiration from the October 6 victories-a day of national pride that motivates Egyptians, particularly those at the Authority, in their dedication to the project.
He stressed Egypt’s commitment to nuclear safety and security, noting that the core catcher is a critical component of the safety system at Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant.
“It reflects the
highest nuclear safety standards, ensuring the plant’s safe and continuous operation. This unique protection system, installed beneath the reactor vessel, enhances safety and security,” he said.
Alexey Kononenko, Vice President of Atomstroyexport and Project Director of the Dabaa plant, expressed satisfaction at reaching this milestone on schedule.
He credited the achievement to the strong cooperation between the Egyptian and Russian teams, represented by NPPA and Atomstroyexport, and thanked everyone involved for their contributions. Kononenko looked forward to completing what will be the safest and most modern nuclear power plant in the world.
The core catcher for the plant’s third unit arrived at the specialized port of Dabaa on 23 July. According to NPAA, this equipment is a hallmark of advanced Generation 3+ Russian reactors, reflecting the highest nuclear safety standards for the safe and continuous operation of the Dabaa plant.
The Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, located on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast,
320 km northwest of Cairo and 170 km west of Alexandria, will consist of four power units, each with a 1,200 MW capacity, using third-generation Russian VVER-1200 pressurized water reactors.
The first nuclear unit is scheduled to begin operations in 2028, with the remaining units following by 2030.
In 2015, Egypt and Russia signed an agreement for a $25 billion state export loan to finance 85 percent of the $30 billion construction costs for the Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, which will generate 4,800 MW from its four reactors.
On 30 June 2022, the Egyptian Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority (ENRRA) granted ROSATOM, Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation, permission to begin construction.
Once operational, the plant is expected to supply about 10 percent of Egypt’s energy needs, producing up to 37 billion kilowatt-hours annually.
Source: State Information Service Egypt