Hyundai Engineering & Construction signed a cooperation agreement with Emirates Nuclear Energy Co. as both firms position themselves for an anticipated surge in global nuclear demand driven by artificial intelligence and data center expansion.
The memorandum of understanding, signed July 28 in Seoul during an ENEC management visit, establishes a framework for the companies to jointly pursue international nuclear projects. The collaboration reflects broader momentum in nuclear energy as electricity demand rises rapidly due to AI technologies and data centers, according to ENEC.
The partnership builds on Hyundai E&C’s role as lead contractor for ENEC’s four-unit Barakah nuclear plant, which began full commercial operation in September 2024. The facility now provides approximately 25% of the UAE’s electricity while preventing 22.4 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
ENEC is pursuing global expansion after completing the Arab Gulf’s first nuclear plant, while Hyundai E&C has emerged from a 15-year absence in overseas nuclear markets. The South Korean builder recently secured selection as the sole qualified bidder for Bulgaria’s Kozloduy nuclear project and has inked partnerships with US companies including Holtec International.
The agreement includes formation of a joint working group to identify investment opportunities, though neither company disclosed potential project locations or financial commitments.
