Public Support for Nuclear Energy in UAE Rises
From The National
By Awad Mustafa
Public support for nuclear power in the UAE has jumped by 16 per cent in one year, a study released yesterday by global research consultancy firm TNS suggests.
A total of 82 per cent of people surveyed are now in favour of nuclear, compared with 66 per cent last year, and they are even in favour of a plant being built in their emirates.
The poll of 750 residents also found awareness of nuclear energy had increased by 13 per cent on 2011 figures, and that 55 per cent of respondents now view this form of energy as a main source of power generation, second only to oil.
Hamad Al Kaabi, the Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency, said public support of the nuclear programme continued to be high as a result of the UAE’s transparent approach and commitments to the highest standards of safety.
“Engagement with the public in a transparent manner and addressing their concerns is a fundamental principle of the UAE policy,” Mr Al Kaabi said.
