Egypt has moved another step forward in its civilian nuclear program with the installation of the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) for Unit 2 at the El Dabaa nuclear power plant. The latest milestone comes just seven months after the successful installation of the same equipment for Unit 1, according to a statement issued by the Cabinet.
Speaking during the ceremony celebrating the installation, Egypt’s Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly said, “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.”
Madbouly also emphasized that the project continues to progress according to schedule while complying with international nuclear safety and quality standards. He noted that the initiative is a key component of Egypt Vision 2030, contributing to economic development, strengthening energy security, and supporting climate change efforts through a more diversified national energy mix.
Project Progress Supports Egypt Vision 2030 and International Cooperation
Situated in Matrouh Governorate, the El Dabaa nuclear power plant is Egypt’s first nuclear facility and is being developed in partnership with Russia’s state nuclear corporation (Rosatom). Once completed, the project will include four 1,200 megawatt (MW) water-water energy reactor (VVER)-1200 Generation III+ reactors, delivering a combined generating capacity of 4,800 MW. The reactor technology is regarded among the most advanced and safest designs currently operating commercially.
Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom, highlighted the pace of construction, stating, “The completion of the Unit 2 reactor vessel installation only seven months after Unit 1 demonstrates the accelerating pace of implementation.”
Rafael Mariano Grossi, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting Egypt’s civilian 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 said.
Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, described the installation of Unit 2 at the El Dabaa nuclear power plant as a significant milestone that advances Egypt’s long-term energy strategy, sustainable development objectives, and energy security goals. He also underlined the importance of broadening electricity generation sources while strengthening cooperation with international partners to support both renewable and nuclear energy goals.
The installation of the reactor pressure vessel represents a key stage in the construction of the El Dabaa nuclear power plant, marking the transition from major civil engineering works to intensive nuclear equipment assembly and commissioning. According to the Cabinet’s statement, this achievement reflects Egypt’s continued progress toward a diversified and sustainable energy future while reinforcing its strategic partnership with Russia and maintaining its commitment to international nuclear safety standards.
