In the presence of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) today announced the launch of the world's first large-scale 'round the clock' gigascale project, combining solar power and battery storage in Abu Dhabi.
Why is UAE launching a solar power and battery storage project?
The launch of the solar power and battery storage project marks a pivotal moment in the clean energy transformation, allowing renewable energy to be dispatched 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reaffirming the UAE's position as a global pioneer in renewable energy deployment.
The project was launched at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) on Tuesday announced plans to build the world's first large-scale 'round the clock' gigascale project, combining solar power and battery storage in Abu Dhabi.
Will Masdar & EWEC build a solar-plus-storage project in Abu Dhabi?
Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Co. (EWEC) plan to build a $6 billion, 5 GW/19 GWh solar-plus-storage project in Abu Dhabi, with operations set to start by 2027. Emirati state-owned renewable investment company Masdar is partnering with EWEC to build a giant solar and battery energy storage (BESS) facility.
EWEC has several large-scale solar projects in the region, including the 2 GW Al Dhafra solar project in Abu Dhabi. Earlier this month, it put out a request for proposals for 1.5 GW of solar.
What is EWEC doing in Abu Dhabi?
Located in Abu Dhabi, the project will feature a 5.2 gigawatt DC solar photovoltaic plant, coupled with a 19 gigawatt-hour battery energy storage system, setting a global benchmark in clean energy innovation. “In collaboration with EWEC and our partners, we will develop a renewable energy facility capable of providing clean energy round the clock.
What does the UAE's solar power project mean for the environment?
The world-leading project reflects the vision and commitment of the UAE leadership in driving socioeconomic and environmental progress. Alsuwaidi said: “The accelerated integration of solar power and advanced battery energy storage sets a new benchmark in clean energy, driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.