Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) has announced that Peter Dietrich has taken the reins as its chief nuclear officer (CNO). As part of his role, Dietrich will be responsible for leadership programmes to support the growth of Emirati professionals who will be required to operate the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant over its 60-year lifespan.
According to a statement from ENEC, the CNO position serves a strategic function in supporting the development of the UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Program. The role includes assessing the plan for the delivery of reactor units one to four in line with international standards of nuclear safety and quality.
“His selection as chief nuclear officer highlights our objective to embed highly experienced international nuclear experts as part of ENEC’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, security and quality. He is a respected leader who has extensive experience in the global nuclear energy industry, demonstrating the capacity to continuously improve performance while mentoring and developing the appropriate skills and capabilities in the different organizations in which he has served,” said ENEC CEO, Mohamed Al Hammadi.
Dietrich has worked at five different commercial nuclear sites including three years as CNO of a multi-unit energy plant in the US. He joins ENEC from Southern California Edison where he was SVP, Transmission and Distribution.
Nawah Energy Company (Nawah), a subsidiary of ENEC, will hold the operating license from FANR and will be responsible for the safe operation of the plant. Nawah’s CNO is accountable for adherence to all regulatory obligations related to the operating license and Dietrich will have to ensure that Nawah receives full support from ENEC and its joint venture partner, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), which will enable Nawah to focus on operations and licensing requirements.