EWEC Calls For Partnerships In Developing A Sustainable 400MW Battery Energy Storage System

The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has officially opened the floor for developers and developer consortiums to express their interest in a pioneering project. This initiative focuses on the development of an independent 400-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) power project, marking a significant step towards enhancing the flexibility and reliability of the energy system in the region.

EWEC's strategic vision encompasses the deployment of BESS technology to offer ancillary services, including frequency response and voltage regulation. This move is integral to EWEC's broader goal of diversifying its energy project portfolio with an emphasis on sustainability. The company aims to boost its total solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation capacity to 7.5 gigawatts by 2030. Through these renewable energy projects, EWEC anticipates a reduction in its average carbon dioxide intensity from power generation by about 42 per cent, decreasing from 330 kilogrammes per megawatt hour in 2019 to an estimated 190kg/MWh by 2030.

Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, highlighted the project's significance in achieving Abu Dhabi Department of Energy’s Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035 and supporting the UAE's broader sustainability and decarbonisation goals. "This project is a key part of our strategy... It also actively enhances the reliability of the nation’s energy infrastructure," Al Ali stated. He further elaborated on the unmatched advantages of BESS, such as increased flexibility, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and improved efficiency, making it a critical investment for system operability with significant renewable energy integration.

The project will adopt the model of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi’s successful independent power project programme. Developers entering into this venture will engage in a long-term agreement with EWEC, which will act as the sole procurer. The scope involves the development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the BESS system along with its associated infrastructure.

Developers interested in participating are invited to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) by 22 March 2024, at 12:00 noon Gulf Standard Time (GST). Submissions should be sent electronically to [email protected]. Following the EOI review, EWEC will issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to parties interested in advancing to the next stage. The RFQ will provide further details about the project, including pre-qualification criteria and bidding process instructions.

This initiative not only underscores EWEC's commitment to steering the UAE towards a sustainable energy future but also opens up avenues for developers to contribute to this transformative journey. With a clear timeline and structured tender process in place, EWEC is set to foster partnerships that will expedite the nation's transition to renewable energy sources.

With inputs from WAM