Dubai, Aug 20 (IANS): Unit 1 of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has been safely and successfully connected to the grid of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), state-media reported.

"Grid connection of Unit 1 is the beginning of a new era in our project, which is built upon years of preparation and adherence to the highest international safety and quality standards," Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi, chief executive officer of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, said on Wednesday.

"We are confident that our people and our technology will continue to progress to commercial operations and reach the completion of the remaining three units, with the goal to power up to 25 per cent of the UAE's electricity needs for at least the next 60 years," he added.

Earlier this month, the UAE announced the launch of its first nuclear power plant, reports Xinhua news agency.

Situated 280 km away from Abu Dhabi, the project is expected to cover 25 per cent of the country's energy needs, and prevent 21 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year.

When completed, it will consist of four units with a total capacity of 5,600 megawatts.