Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, visited the French cities of Belfort to inspect turbine manufacturing progress for the Dabaa nuclear power plant. The visit included stops at the facilities of Arabelle Solutions and Framatome, where the turbine generators and related electrical equipment are being produced.
The main goal of the visit was to assess the readiness of key turbine components and check on the technical testing of the first turbine. This turbine is scheduled to be delivered to the Dabaa site before the end of 2025.
This inspection is part of Egypt’s national energy strategy, which aims to cut reliance on fossil fuels and increase clean energy in the country’s power supply. The visit also supports ongoing efforts to advance the Dabaa nuclear project, which is intended for peaceful energy use.
Minister Esmat was joined by senior officials from the Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA), led by Chairman Sherif Hammouda. The delegation also included Russian representatives from Atomstroyexport, headed by Project Director Alexey Kononenko. The group received detailed briefings from Arabelle Solutions and Framatome on the progress of manufacturing and the technical readiness of turbine and generator parts.
One of the highlights of the visit was the turbine itself. It is the largest of its kind ever made for Egypt or Africa. The team reviewed its current status and the advanced technology used in its control systems. They also discussed the production schedule and timelines for equipment deliveries.
During the tour, the delegation visited several manufacturing zones inside the factories. Minister Esmat officially launched the final phase of technical testing for the first unit’s turbine generator. These tests aim to confirm that the equipment meets all required specifications before shipment.
The visit also included inspections of other major components, including the turbine systems and generator parts now under construction. Esmat stressed the need for ongoing coordination between all partners to ensure the project stays on track and meets key deadlines.
He praised the strong partnership between Egypt and Russia, noting that both countries are fully committed to the project. He also highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in Egypt’s Vision 2030 goals. These goals include meeting rising energy demands, improving energy security, and supporting sustainable development.
Minister Esmat said that Egypt’s political leadership is closely watching the project’s progress. He noted that the government is actively working to expand its energy mix, lower fossil fuel use, and reduce carbon emissions by focusing more on clean energy.
Esmat reaffirmed Egypt’s ambition to become a regional leader in peaceful nuclear energy. He said the Dabaa project will help not only with electricity generation but also support scientific, industrial, and agricultural progress. This project is a key part of Egypt’s long-term energy transformation plan.
