KO
- Samsung C&T Engineering & Construction (E&C) Group signs MOU with Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) to jointly pursue nuclear and hydrogen-related projects worldwide
- The agreement combines both companies’ expertise in nuclear infrastructure to expand cooperation across large-scale reactors, SMRs, and hydrogen development
Samsung C&T E&C Group is expanding its global presence in nuclear energy through a new strategic partnership with ENEC, the UAE organization behind the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. On July 29, the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation on large-scale nuclear development, small modular reactors (SMRs), and hydrogen production using nuclear power.
The ceremony took place at the Sofitel Ambassador Hotel in Seoul, with Samsung C&T CEO Se-cheol Oh and ENEC CEO Mohamed Al Hammadi in attendance, alongside senior representatives from both sides.
Expanding Global Cooperation in Nuclear Energy
Through this agreement, Samsung C&T E&C Group and ENEC will explore joint development of nuclear-related projects across international markets. Areas of collaboration include new nuclear plant construction, recommissioning of existing plants, and mergers and acquisitions related to nuclear infrastructure.
The two companies will also consider investments in nuclear equipment suppliers and service providers. Together, they plan to develop a strategic roadmap for long-term cooperation based on their respective strengths.
The Group brings experience from delivering large-scale infrastructure and power generation projects, while ENEC offers deep expertise in nuclear plant development, having led the successful deployment of the Barakah plant near Abu Dhabi.
Joint Focus on SMRs and Hydrogen Production
The agreement also outlines plans for joint development and investment in small modular reactors (SMRs), an emerging segment in the energy market. In addition, Samsung C&T E&C Group and ENEC will explore opportunities to produce hydrogen using nuclear power in Korea and other global markets.
In a statement, ENEC emphasized that nuclear energy plays a central role in meeting rising electricity demand. The organization noted that this partnership would help accelerate deployment, investment, and innovation across the nuclear industry, with the goal of contributing to long-term economic growth in participating countries.
A representative from Samsung C&T E&C Group highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving innovation. “Nuclear power is essential for ensuring stable energy supply,” the Group noted. “Through cooperation with ENEC, we aim to create meaningful synergy in both large-scale reactors and the SMR sector.”
Building on a Track Record
Samsung C&T is already active in several international nuclear markets. In April 2025, the Group secured a contract to upgrade Unit 1 of the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant in Romania. It is also participating in Romania’s SMR development project alongside NuScale, Fluor, and Sargent & Lundy, supporting the front-end engineering design (FEED) process.
The Group is pursuing similar expansion efforts in Sweden and Estonia, contributing to both large-scale nuclear and SMR development.
Meanwhile, ENEC has already completed one of the world’s most high-profile nuclear projects, investing approximately KRW 40 trillion to construct and operate four Korean-designed reactors at the Barakah site. The project stands as a milestone in international cooperation on nuclear energy.
