Etihad Rail Partners With Emerge To Solarise Ghuweifat Freight Terminal For Sustainable Energy

Etihad Rail has partnered with Emerge, a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group, to introduce solar power at its Ghuweifat freight terminal. This collaboration aims to install a 600 kWp ground-mounted solar PV system and a 2.56 MWh battery energy storage system. The initiative is expected to supply up to 85% of the terminal's electricity needs, significantly reducing its carbon emissions.

The agreement was formalised by Ahmed Al-Yafei, CEO of Etihad Rail Infrastructure, and Eng. Abdulaziz AlObaidli, Chairman of Emerge. It was witnessed by key figures including Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, and Luc Koechlin, CEO of EDF Middle East. The project will utilise Emerge’s technology to generate solar power during daylight hours, offsetting night-time energy use and cutting CO2 emissions by over 8,500 tons throughout the contract period.

Shadi Malak emphasised the importance of this initiative in aligning with sustainability goals: "This initiative is a cornerstone of our vision to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations. With the support of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, we are leading the charge in the shift to a low-carbon and energy efficient economy. By collaborating with Emerge and initiating the transition to solar power, we are not only reducing our environmental impact but also building greener and more resilient supply chains, thus supporting our nation’s goals and ambitions for a more sustainable future."

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi from Masdar highlighted the partnership's role in advancing sustainable infrastructure: "The collaboration with Etihad Rail is a pivotal step towards cleaner and more sustainable infrastructure development in the region. By leveraging the local and international experience of both Masdar and EDF Group – leading companies in the energy sector – the Emerge joint venture is ideally equipped to support Etihad Rail and other organizations to reduce their environmental impact and become more sustainable on the road to realising the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy."

Luc Koechlin from EDF Group expressed pride in supporting this green initiative: "As a global leader in low-carbon electricity generation, EDF Group is proud to support Etihad Rail in this innovative initiative, which exemplifies our shared commitment to a sustainable energy future. By leveraging our expertise in low-carbon solutions, including our deep knowledge of transportation infrastructure and electrification, we are proud to contribute to the UAE's energy transition and help build a net-zero Middle East."

This project marks an important milestone for Etihad Rail's commitment to environmental responsibility as part of its ESG strategy. It also supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy by aiming for a 21% annual reduction in CO2 emissions from road transport by 2050.

Sustainable Logistics Solutions

The Ghuweifat freight terminal plays a crucial role as it facilitates cross-border operations due to its strategic location near Saudi Arabia. This positioning enhances regional logistics solutions that align with Etihad Rail's eco-friendly objectives. By incorporating solar technology into its operations, Ghuweifat terminal aims for self-sufficiency through renewable energy use.

This integration sets new benchmarks for efficient logistics while reducing carbon footprints. The initiative not only supports sustainable practices but also contributes significantly towards achieving national environmental targets.

With inputs from WAM