EWEC Invites Proposals For Development Of Al Sila Wind Power Project Generating 140 MW

The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Al Sila Wind Independent Power Project (IPP). This project is set to be developed near an existing wind farm in Al Sila. Interested companies must submit their proposals by the second quarter of 2025.

Once operational, the Al Sila Wind project will produce up to 140 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy. This capacity is sufficient to power 36,000 homes and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 190,000 tonnes annually. The project will enhance Abu Dhabi's wind energy capacity to about 240MW.

This initiative builds on Abu Dhabi’s current wind farms at Sila, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Delma Island. Mohamed Al Marzooqi, EWEC's Chief Asset Development and Management Officer, stated that "The Al Sila Wind project represents a bold step forward in diversifying the UAE’s energy mix and further establishing Abu Dhabi as a regional hub for innovation in utility-scale renewable energy."

Al Marzooqi also mentioned that this development aligns with EWEC’s mission to speed up the energy transition while promoting the UAE’s sustainable future. He added, "We are forecasting a further increase in our wind capacity to 2.6 gigawatts by 2035, setting a global benchmark in renewable energy leadership."

The RFP has been sent to 16 qualified companies and consortiums who advanced from the Expression of Interest stage held in October 2024. The document outlines detailed requirements and technical specifications needed for developing their proposals.

The Al Sila Wind project encompasses development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the wind farm along with its infrastructure. The selected developer or consortium will own up to 40% of the entity while the remaining equity will be indirectly owned by the Abu Dhabi Government.

Power Purchase Agreement

The chosen developer will enter into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with EWEC. As Abu Dhabi's sole buyer of power and water capacity, EWEC will pay only for the net electrical energy supplied by the plant under this agreement.

This strategic move not only boosts renewable energy production but also strengthens Abu Dhabi's position as a leader in sustainable development. By increasing its wind capacity significantly over the next decade, Abu Dhabi aims to set new standards in global renewable energy leadership.

With inputs from WAM