The project features a 5.2GW solar photovoltaic plant integrated with a 19GWh battery energy storage system.
Developed by Masdar in collaboration with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), the project aims to provide 1 GW of clean, continuous baseload power at a competitive tariff. According to Masdar, the development will be the world’s largest and most advanced solar and battery storage project, representing a significant step in the evolution of global renewable energy technology.
UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Masdar Chairman Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “As the world intensifies efforts to ensure secure, sustainable and affordable energy, the UAE is charting a new path by leveraging advanced technology and innovation to drive sustainable development. This project represents the culmination of Masdar’s two decades of expertise in renewable energy and the power of strategic partnerships in Abu Dhabi’s energy ecosystem.”
Scheduled for commissioning in 2027, the project is expected to offset approximately 5.7 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. It will also create more than 10,000 jobs and support the establishment of new local manufacturing facilities, contributing to the UAE’s broader industrial and energy diversification goals.
The facility will incorporate advanced technologies designed to optimize energy management and operational efficiency, including virtual power plant systems, grid-forming capabilities, and artificial intelligence-based forecasting tools. These innovations aim to enhance the project’s reliability and ensure a stable renewable power supply for key industries.
Emirates Water and Electricity Company CEO Ahmed Ali Al Shamsi stated: “This groundbreaking project reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and reaffirms our commitment to pioneering transformative innovations that support national objectives. As Abu Dhabi and the UAE emerge as global centers for AI research and innovation, this initiative will ensure sustainable energy supply for such vital sectors.”
Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi emphasized the project’s importance, saying: “We are proud to lay the foundation stone for this world-first project, which marks a major milestone in the UAE’s efforts to advance clean energy. As Masdar’s most ambitious project to date, it demonstrates the feasibility of continuous renewable power and addresses the challenge of intermittency. It will help meet growing energy demands from AI and advanced technology sectors while opening new horizons for global renewable energy innovation.”
By 2030, Masdar plans to expand its clean energy portfolio to 100 GW, reinforcing its position as a leading global developer in the energy transition and furthering the UAE’s long-term strategy for sustainable growth.
