The inauguration of the world's biggest solar power plant, situated in Abu Dhabi, has taken place in anticipation of the UAE's hosting of COP28. Positioned 35km away from the city, the remarkable Al Dhafra Solar Photovoltaic Independent Power Project, with a capacity of 2GW, was constructed in one phase and produces sufficient electricity to supply nearly 200,000 households. Moreover, it effectively reduces carbon emissions by 2.4 million tonnes annually.
HE #DrSultanAlJAber highlighted the #AlDhafraSolarPV's status as the world's largest single-site solar power plant, driving scale, solar power efficiency, and cost competitiveness with the #UAE now a world leader in solar.
🔗https://t.co/I95WYtwYG9 pic.twitter.com/nhbAuGFP8b — Masdar (@Masdar) November 16, 2023
The desert-based plant covers an area of over 20 sq.km. and provided employment to 4,500 individuals during the construction phase's peak. It incorporates nearly 4 million solar panels that utilize advanced bi-facial technology to capture sunlight on both sides of the panels, thereby optimizing the yield.
The project was developed by Masdar, in collaboration with its partners TAQA, EDF Renewables, and JinkoPower. The procurement firm for the project is Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC).
The project that provides clean and emission-free electricity to the UAE national grid was revealed by Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, was also in attendance during the unveiling.
Hazza bin Zayed inaugurates world’s largest single-site solar power plant ahead of #COP28#WamVideo https://t.co/CzG3BpBxkd pic.twitter.com/gZhCF6tg7G — WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) November 16, 2023
Sheikh Hazza has restated that the UAE, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is continuing to execute its strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering its energy security. These efforts involve the implementation of a wide array of adaptable energy generation methods, which not only contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions but also drive economic progress.
Our CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, described the inauguration of #AlDhafraSolarPV as a proud moment for #Masdar to develop the world's largest single-site solar power plant, highlighting its vision, partnership, and pioneering approach.
🔗https://t.co/I95WYtwYG9 pic.twitter.com/YWvAGqe1Se — Masdar (@Masdar) November 16, 2023
According to data from the Statistical Review of World Energy, the UAE has become a significant player in the global solar energy market, ranking second in the world for solar energy consumption.
The country's commitment to transitioning to green energy is evident in its per capita solar energy consumption, which was 1,921 kilowatt hours last year.
Although Australia ranked first with 3,868 kilowatt hours, the UAE's consistent second-place ranking in previous years demonstrates its dedication to sustainable energy practices. As of 2021, the country's per capita solar energy consumption is 1,747 kilowatt hours, while Australia remains at the top with 3,149 kilowatt hours.
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