In light of looming peak demand for electricity, the UAE faces an energy crossroads. Which form of alternative energy is most viable? Business conference organizer, Leaders Presents, a division of the Institute for International Research Middle East, recently held a poll among 300 regional business leaders. 92% support government research initiatives for alternative fuel sources. With the expectation that the UAE’s annual electricity demand will reach 40,000 megawatts by 2020, a quick and practical solution is needed.
While safe methods of radioactive waste disposal must be explored, 69% of surveyed business officials prefer nuclear energy to continued reliance on crude oil as it leaves no carbon footprint. Although nuclear energy is the most practical solution, the world questions the nuclear intentions of the small Middle Eastern state.
The UAE’s recently launched Policy on the Evaluation and Potential Development of Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programs clarifies the direction and aspirations of its nuclear energy developments. Six principles convey the “peaceful and unambiguous objectives” of the UAE’s intended use of nuclear energy. The first three commit to complete operational transparency, pursuing the highest standards of non-proliferation, and the highest standards of safety and security.
The fourth principle emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) standards. Principle five states the desire to “develop any peaceful domestic nuclear power capability in partnership with the governments and firms of responsible nations, as well with the assistance of appropriate expert organizations.” The UAE states in principle six that it will “approach any peaceful domestic nuclear power program in a manner that best ensures long-term sustainability.”
Nuclear officials have already taken practical steps: in July they began to scope out potential locations for nuclear reactors. With a cost of $7 billion for each 1,500 megawatt reactor and a seven year waiting period for each reactor to become fully functional, the UAE faces a time crunch to make costly decisions about its energy future.
