EWEC Invites Developers To Submit Expressions Of Interest For Zarraf Solar PV Power Project In Abu Dhabi

The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has announced a call for developers and consortiums to express interest in a new solar photovoltaic (PV) project. This independent power project (IPP) will be situated in the Al Dhafra Region, specifically in the Al Zarraf area of Abu Dhabi. The Zarraf Solar PV project aims to enhance the UAE's renewable energy capacity significantly.

The Zarraf Solar PV initiative is designed as a greenfield solar power project with a 1.5 gigawatts (GW) AC capacity. It will match the scale of existing projects like Al Dhafra Solar PV, Al Ajban Solar PV, and Khazna Solar PV. Once operational, it will supply electricity to about 160,000 homes across the UAE. This will cut CO2 emissions by over 2.4 million metric tonnes annually, boosting EWEC’s solar power capacity to around 7 GW (AC).

EWEC's strategic plan includes adding an average of 1.4GW of new solar PV capacity each year from 2027 to 2037. By 2030, more than half of Abu Dhabi’s electricity demand is expected to be met through renewable and clean energy sources. By 2035, this figure should rise to 60 percent, reflecting a significant shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

Invitation for Expressions of Interest

Developers or consortiums interested in the Zarraf Solar PV project must submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) by 22nd October 2024 at noon Gulf Standard Time (GST). EOIs should be sent electronically to [email protected]. Following this, EWEC will review submissions and issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), detailing pre-qualification criteria and bidding processes.

Project Development Framework

The Zarraf Solar PV project involves various stages including development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the plant and its infrastructure. It follows Abu Dhabi's independent power project programme where developers enter long-term power purchase agreements with EWEC as the sole electricity procurer.

Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, stated: "The Zarraf Solar PV project is a key component of EWEC’s world-leading deployment of solar power generation, as we strategically accelerate the UAE’s energy transition. We are proud to be leading the transformation of the energy ecosystem by commissioning and deploying new low-carbon technologies."

Upon reviewing EOIs, EWEC will proceed with issuing RFQs before moving on to Requests for Proposals for qualified bidders after obtaining regulatory approval. This structured approach ensures that only capable entities advance in developing this significant solar initiative.

This ambitious project underscores EWEC's commitment to advancing renewable energy in line with national goals for sustainability and carbon reduction. The Zarraf Solar PV project represents another step towards achieving these objectives while supporting global efforts to combat climate change through cleaner energy production methods.

With inputs from WAM