EWEC Receives Three Proposals For Development Of Taweelah C Independent Power Producer Project

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has received proposals for the Taweelah C Independent Power Producer (IPP) project. Three consortiums have submitted bids: Al Jomaih Energy and Water Company with Sembcorp Industries, Sumitomo Corporation with Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation and Korean Midland Power, and Korea Western Power Company with Etihad Water and Electricity and Kyuden International.

The Taweelah C project is set to be a carbon-capture-ready Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant. It will be located in the Al Taweelah Power and Desalination Complex, about 50 kilometres northeast of Abu Dhabi. This initiative is part of EWEC's efforts to decarbonise Abu Dhabi's electricity and water supply, supporting the UAE's transition to net-zero emissions by diversifying energy sources.

Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Chief Asset Development & Management Officer of EWEC, stated, "As the UAE transitions to a clean energy future, gas-fired plants like Taweelah C are integral to maintaining energy security. High-efficiency natural gas facilities provide the necessary reliability and flexibility to support the increasing integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid, in addition to assistance during peak demand periods. By 2030, we forecast that over half of Abu Dhabi's electricity capacity will be provided from renewable and clean energy sources."

The Taweelah C plant will play a vital role in enhancing grid stability as the UAE advances its clean energy goals. The project's flexible generation capabilities will support large-scale integration of renewable sources like solar power while ensuring consistent power delivery. This aligns with EWEC’s strategy to deliver 10GW of installed solar PV capacity by 2030 and 18GW by 2035.

The project is expected to contribute significantly to Emiratisation targets by involving UAE Nationals in key roles. This supports national workforce development goals as part of Abu Dhabi’s successful IPP programme. Additionally, Taweelah C will aid in achieving the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy’s Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035 for Electricity Production.

Taweelah C is designed as a transitional asset combining efficiency with operational agility. Its role is crucial for maintaining system resilience while integrating intermittent renewable sources into the grid. The plant will have a capacity of 2.5 gigawatts and aims for commercial operations by Q4 2028.

Strategic Timeline for Implementation

The awarding announcement for this project is anticipated in Q4 2025 alongside the execution of the Power Purchase Agreement. This timeline reflects EWEC’s broader strategy to transform national energy infrastructure while fostering economic growth through high-skilled job creation.

This initiative underscores EWEC's commitment to sustainable development goals while ensuring energy security through innovative projects like Taweelah C. By aligning with national objectives, it contributes towards achieving the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

With inputs from WAM