EWEC invites bids for 1.5GW solar project

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has invited developers to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the development of a new Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Independent Power Project with the capacity of 1,500 MW (AC).

“The Al Ajban Solar PV project, a greenfield solar PV plant with power generation capacity of 1,500 MW (AC), is fundamentally important to the energy transition and sustainability strategy of Abu Dhabi, and will play a pivotal role in successfully achieving the sustainability and energy diversification objectives of UAE Energy Strategy 2050, and the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative through the use of renewable and clean energy,” said the company in the statement. 

The Al Ajban Solar PV is the third world leading large scale utility solar PV project developed by EWEC, after Noor Abu Dhabi and Al Dhafra Solar PV. Developers and developing consortium must submit their bids by 27 May.

The solar park is expected to generate electricity for approximately 160,000 homes across the UAE. EWEC said the park is expected to reduce Abu Dhabi’s CO2 emissions by more than 2.4 million metric tons per year.

“With Al Ajban Solar PV, which will be similar in size and capacity output to Al Dhafra Solar PV, Abu Dhabi and the UAE will have the three largest, world leading solar power plants, increasing the diversification of our energy production portfolio, and significantly advancing decarbonisation of the energy sector,” said Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC. 

EWEC said that the project will involve the development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance and ownership of the plant, and associated infrastructure. 

The winning developer or developer consortium will own up to 40 percent of the entity, Abu Dhabi Government will indirectly hold the remaining percent. EWEC said the developer will enter into a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA).