In a significant advancement for Egypt’s energy ambitions, Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom has successfully installed the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) for the second unit at the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. This milestone underscores the accelerating pace of construction on North Africa’s first nuclear power facility in decades.
The ceremony, attended by high-level officials including Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, highlights the deepening strategic partnership between Egypt and Russia in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
The $25–28.75 billion El Dabaa project, originally signed in 2015, positions Rosatom as the primary contractor responsible for design, construction, nuclear fuel supply throughout the plant’s lifecycle, personnel training, and long-term technical support. Located on the Mediterranean coast in Matrouh Governorate, approximately 320 km northwest of Cairo, the plant will feature four Generation III+ VVER-1200 pressurized water reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 MW.
Once fully operational, the facility is expected to generate about 10% of Egypt’s electricity, providing a reliable baseload power source for millions while supporting energy security and economic development. It also includes provisions for potential nuclear-powered desalination. Construction of the four units is proceeding nearly concurrently, with first concrete poured for Unit 1 in 2022 and subsequent units following rapidly.
The reactor pressure vessel installed in Unit 2 is a massive component approximately 330–340 tonnes, 13 meters long, and 4.5 meters in diameter, manufactured in Russia with an initial service life of 60 years (extendable to 80). It was delivered as part of one of the largest single shipments for any nuclear project. The installation follows the same operation for Unit 1 by just seven months, signaling rapid progress.
Official Statements
Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom:
“Construction of the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant is progressing at an excellent pace. Just seven months ago, we installed the reactor pressure vessel at Unit 1, and today we are carrying out the same operation at Unit 2. This is a significant milestone not only for the unit itself but for the entire project. More than 25,000 people are working on the construction site daily, over 18,000 of whom are Egyptian citizens. We will increase our workforce… Together with our Egyptian partners, we are making every effort to ensure the site is ready for the delivery of the first nuclear fuel in the first half of 2027 and the connection of the power units to the grid in 2028.”
Egyptian officials (including Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and references to the project’s national importance):
The El Dabaa project is described as a “long-awaited national project” enabled by strong cooperation with Russia. Egyptian leaders have emphasized its role in the national energy strategy, timely implementation, expanded training programs, and strengthening bilateral ties for energy independence.
The project reinforces Russia’s position as a global leader in nuclear exports and deepens Egypt-Russia relations. For Egypt, it represents a major step toward diversifying its energy mix beyond traditional sources, addressing growing demand, and positioning the country as a regional nuclear pioneer. Challenges such as financing (with Russia covering ~85% via a $25 billion loan at favorable terms) and local capacity building are being actively managed through joint efforts.
Next steps include welding of the main coolant pipelines and continued parallel construction across units, with Unit 1 targeted for grid connection around 2028. This milestone not only celebrates engineering achievement but also paves the way for a sustainable energy future in Egypt.
