EWEC Collaborates With ENGIE And Masdar On 1.5GW Khazna Solar Photovoltaic Project In Abu Dhabi

The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has awarded the contract for its new Khazna Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Independent Power Project. This 1.5 gigawatt (GW) solar power plant will be developed by ENGIE and Masdar, both leaders in clean energy solutions. The project's Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) has been signed with these companies.

Upon completion, the Khazna Solar PV project will generate electricity sufficient to power around 160,000 homes in the UAE. It will also help avoid over 2.4 million metric tonnes of carbon emissions annually in Abu Dhabi. The plant will utilise nearly three million solar panels that track the sun's movement to maximise energy capture.

This project aligns with EWEC's strategic goals to boost Abu Dhabi's solar power capacity to 18GW by 2035. It aims to meet 60% of the emirate's total power demand from renewable sources by then, supporting the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy’s Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035.

The procurement process for the Khazna Solar PV contract was thorough, ensuring a competitive selection. The PPA is structured so that EWEC pays only for the net electrical energy supplied by the plant, making it cost-effective.

Advanced digital solutions will be integrated into the project to enhance efficiency and performance. These include IoT-enabled sensors, cloud-based monitoring platforms, big data analytics, and robotic cleaning systems to maintain optimal panel performance and reduce maintenance costs.

ENGIE and Masdar are tasked with designing, financing, building, and operating the plant near Al Khazna in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving the UAE’s renewable energy targets.

Leadership Insights

Ahmed Ali Alshamsi, CEO of EWEC, stated that Khazna Solar PV is pivotal in accelerating the UAE’s transition to a carbon-neutral future. He emphasised its role in supporting sustainability and socio-economic objectives through world-leading renewable projects.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, highlighted that this project continues their partnership with EWEC. He noted its importance in transforming energy production and consumption in the UAE while fostering sustainable growth opportunities.

Paulo Almirante from ENGIE expressed pride in supporting the UAE’s energy transition through this landmark project. He remarked on its significance as ENGIE's largest photovoltaic asset globally and its role in strategic public-private collaboration for renewable deployment.

The Khazna Solar PV project represents a major advancement in renewable energy for Abu Dhabi. It not only supports environmental goals but also contributes to economic development through sustainable practices.

With inputs from WAM