EWEC Invites Proposals For Development Of Zarraf Solar Photovoltaic Project In Abu Dhabi

The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to eligible firms for the Zarraf Solar PV Independent Power Producer (IPP) project. This initiative, situated in Al Zarraf within the Al Dhafra Region, marks a crucial advancement in the UAE's shift towards sustainable energy. The project aims to generate 1,500MW (AC), powering around 160,000 homes and cutting CO2 emissions by up to 2.4 million metric tonnes annually.

By 2035, EWEC anticipates that solar PV capacity will reach at least 18GW. This aligns with the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy’s Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035, which aims for renewable and clean energy sources to meet 60 percent of the emirate's power demand. The RFP is extended to companies that qualified after the Expression of Interest (EOI) phase in October 2024.

The Zarraf Solar PV project is part of EWEC's strategy to boost Abu Dhabi’s solar power capacity to at least 10GW (AC) by 2030. It represents EWEC’s fifth large-scale solar PV project, contributing significantly to reducing power emissions intensity by 36 percent by 2030 compared to current levels. Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, stated that this project exemplifies their commitment to decarbonising Abu Dhabi's energy sector.

Al Ali remarked, "Zarraf Solar PV is a further example of EWEC’s sharp focus on commissioning the development of world-leading projects as a strategic pillar in our plans to decarbonise the energy sector in Abu Dhabi and the UAE." He highlighted solar power as a cost-effective and sustainable option that accelerates the UAE’s energy transition.

The RFP outlines detailed requirements and technical parameters for developing submissions. It involves developing, financing, constructing, operating, maintaining, and owning the plant and related infrastructure. The successful developer or consortium will own up to 40 percent of the entity, with the remaining equity held indirectly by the Abu Dhabi Government.

A long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) will be established between EWEC and the developer. Under this agreement, EWEC will pay only for net electrical energy supplied by the plant. Responses to the RFP are expected by Q2 2025, followed by a public event where submitting companies and consortiums will be announced.

During the EOI stage, twenty companies and consortiums expressed interest; sixteen advanced to qualify for this RFP phase after submitting Statements of Qualification. The strong interest underscores the project's importance in advancing renewable energy initiatives within Abu Dhabi.

This initiative not only supports local clean energy goals but also aligns with broader efforts towards sustainability in the UAE. By integrating more renewable sources into its energy mix, Abu Dhabi continues its journey towards a cleaner future while meeting growing electricity demands efficiently.

With inputs from WAM