47 Global Companies Express Interest In Developing Seventh Phase Of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is advancing the seventh phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Saeed Al Tayer, DEWA's MD & CEO, revealed that 47 international firms are keen on this development. This announcement was made at a DEWA forum in Dubai, attended by around 100 representatives from leading solar energy and storage companies worldwide.

The interest from 47 companies across 17 countries highlights global confidence in Dubai's clean energy vision. DEWA collaborates with a global consortium led by Deloitte to ensure alignment with national priorities and regulatory compliance. This collaboration also focuses on financial structuring and attracting global investors.

Al Tayer emphasised Dubai's commitment to sustainability under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He stated, "Guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai is firm in its ambitions to become a global beacon of sustainability and innovation."

The seventh phase will significantly impact carbon emissions reduction. It will eliminate the need to burn 36 billion cubic feet of natural gas annually, reducing carbon emissions by eight million tonnes each year. This aligns with Dubai's goal of increasing clean energy's share in its energy mix to 34%, surpassing the initial target of 25%.

The project will have a production capacity exceeding 1,600 megawatts (MW) and include a 1,000MW battery storage system providing 6,000 megawatt-hours. Scheduled for phased commissioning between 2027 and 2029, it aims to generate 4.5 terawatt-hours of clean electricity annually by 2030.

Strategic Alignment with National Priorities

Al Tayer highlighted the strategic importance of this phase in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. He stated that elevating the solar park’s planned capacity to 7,260 megawatts positions Dubai as a leader in this transition. The project aligns with both the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050.

In his opening speech, Al Tayer reiterated that these strategies are not just aspirations but promises for future generations. He said they aim for all of Dubai’s energy to come from clean sources by 2050.

This development marks a key milestone in Dubai's journey towards clean energy transition. The overwhelming interest from international companies underscores the global confidence in Dubai’s vision for sustainable energy solutions.

With inputs from WAM