EWEC Seeks Proposals For New Gas Turbine Plant In Madinat Zayed To Boost Renewable Energy Shift

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Madinat Zayed Independent Power Producer (IPP) project. This initiative involves constructing a new Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) plant in Madinat Zayed, about 120 kilometres southwest of Abu Dhabi City.

The Madinat Zayed plant is expected to start commercial operations in Q3 2027. It will provide up to 1.5 gigawatts (AC) of backup power, which can be activated quickly when needed. The RFP outlines detailed requirements and technical specifications to assist firms and consortiums in developing their proposals, with responses due by Q4 2024.

As part of the UAE's shift towards renewable energy, flexible gas-fired plants like Madinat Zayed are crucial. They ensure a reliable energy supply while the country transitions to a decarbonised water and electricity system. These plants support solar power growth by providing flexibility during peak demand periods and bridging the gap to a future powered solely by renewable sources.

Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, stated, "EWEC is accelerating the UAE's energy transition, in line with our strategic mission to be a leader of change within the energy sector. Commissioning the development of flexible, gas-fired plants will enable us to incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar PV and wind into the nation's sustainable energy mix even more rapidly. Natural gas has an important, transitional role to play in securing our system while we work towards a more sustainable future."

The Madinat Zayed project follows Abu Dhabi's successful IPP programme model. Developers will enter into long-term agreements with EWEC as the sole procurer. The project includes development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the plant.

The successful developer or consortium will own up to 40 percent of the entity managing the plant. The remaining equity will be indirectly held by the Abu Dhabi Government.

This project is part of EWEC's broader strategy to integrate renewable energy sources like solar PV and wind into the UAE's energy mix more rapidly. Flexible gas-fired plants play a transitional role in ensuring system security while moving towards sustainability.

The RFP provides comprehensive requirements and proposed technical parameters for bidders. This helps firms develop their proposals effectively, ensuring they meet all necessary criteria for this significant project.

By supporting solar power growth and providing flexibility during peak demand periods, projects like Madinat Zayed are essential for bridging the gap to a future powered exclusively by clean and renewable sources.

This initiative underscores EWEC's commitment to leading the UAE's energy transition and ensuring a reliable supply during this critical period of change.

With inputs from WAM