Egypt’s Electricity Minister Reviews Turbine Production in France for Dabaa Nuclear Plant

Egypt’s ongoing drive to secure its energy needs and expand its clean energy capacity made a significant leap this June. Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mahmoud Esmat visited the facilities of Arabelle Solutions and Framatome in Belfort, France, to oversee the manufacturing process of turbine generators and associated electrical equipment destined for Egypt’s ambitious Dabaa nuclear power plant.

The Minister’s inspection focused on evaluating the readiness of crucial components—especially the turbine generators. Esmat also reviewed the status of technical testing for the first turbine unit, which is on track to be delivered to Dabaa before the end of 2025. This milestone is vital for advancing Egypt’s vision of a more diversified and sustainable power generation mix.

This visit was part of Egypt’s broader national energy strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and increase the share of clean, reliable energy. Esmat was accompanied by a senior delegation from the Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA), chaired by Sherif Hammouda, along with officials from Russia’s Atomstroyexport, the country’s main international partner on the Dabaa project. The delegation received comprehensive presentations from Arabelle Solutions and Framatome, focusing on the progress, technical readiness, and quality of key components—especially the turbine, which is set to be the largest of its kind in Egypt and Africa.

The delegation also reviewed advanced control systems technology essential for the safe, efficient operation of nuclear power plants, as well as delivery schedules for equipment currently in production. Esmat toured several manufacturing and production areas, overseeing the launch of the final phase of technical testing for the first unit’s turbine generator, with a focus on full compliance with quality and safety specifications before shipment.

Beyond the turbine, the inspection covered other critical electrical systems in progress, including generator units and various turbine components. Minister Esmat highlighted the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration among all stakeholders—French, Russian, and Egyptian—to maintain the project’s timeline and ensure smooth execution.

Esmat reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Egypt and Russia, stressing how vital this cooperation is for the Dabaa project’s steady progress. He pointed out that nuclear energy’s role in Egypt’s Vision 2030 is foundational—not only to address the nation’s growing electricity demand and reduce carbon emissions but also to enhance energy security and support sustainable development.

He noted that Egypt’s political leadership monitors the Dabaa project closely as part of its commitment to diversifying energy sources and promoting clean, sustainable energy. Esmat also reiterated Egypt’s ambition to be a regional leader in peaceful nuclear energy. The Dabaa project is expected to drive major advances across Egypt’s electricity generation, scientific research, industry, and agriculture, representing a linchpin in the country’s long-term energy transformation plans.

For ongoing coverage and more details, please visit the original article at Daily News Egypt.