The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) hosted the first edition of the CyberEnergy Leadership Forum (CELF) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, with participation from key energy industry and cyber security stakeholders nationally and internationally.

The forum, organized by ENEC, brought together more than 117 experts representing a diverse range of government, semi-government and trusted private sector stakeholders to discuss best practices and approaches used to enhance the cyber resilience of the energy sector in the UAE and globally.

The one-day forum featured a leadership briefing, followed by a technical forum and discussions on key cyber challenges facing the world with high-level attendees including H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, UAE Government was in attendance and gave opening remarks.

H.E. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi, CEO of ENEC, welcomed the leaders and attendants and led the discussions of the forum, which showcased the UAE’s position as a world leader in innovation and best-in-class technology implementation.

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ENEC, a leading entity that is spearheading cyber security in the UAE’s clean energy sector, upholds the highest international standards for the safe and secure operation of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant to ensure abundant volumes of clean electricity are generated 24/7 for the Nation.

The Barakah Plant uses one of the most modern and advanced nuclear technologies and is the first fully digitalized nuclear energy plant in the world.

As a result, ENEC has taken a 360 degree approach, utilizing one of the most advanced cyber systems that is continuously enhanced to remain ahead of the curve in responding to the evolving cybersecurity environment.

H.E. Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, UAE Government, said: “The cybersecurity threat landscape has evolved rapidly over the years, as the world becomes increasingly digitalized – resulting from a greater overlap between IT and Operational Technology (OT).

H.E. Al Hammadi said: “Cybersecurity is a critical focus area in the digital era and today’s Forum has showcased how important it is to continuously evolve cyber strategies that maximize the benefits of advanced technology whilst maintaining safety and security."

Both Units 1 and 2 of the Barakah Plant are commercially operating with Unit 3 set to join them in the coming months.

When it begins to operate at full power, it will add a further 1,400 megawatts of zero-carbon emission electricity to the national grid. Unit 4 is in the final stages of commissioning prior to construction completion.

A powerhouse for the nation’s sustainable development, energy security and stability, the Barakah Plant provides significant environmental benefits for the Nation today and for the next 60 years and beyond.

When fully operational, the Plant will produce up to 25% of the UAE’s electricity needs and prevent 22.4 million tons of carbon emissions - the leading cause of climate change - every year.

Cyber security for the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is regulated by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) which is responsible for reviewing and overseeing physical protection for nuclear materials and facilities.

ENEC’s cyber security systems comply with the highest international standards set by the UAE’s National Electronic Security Authority (NESA).

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