#solar energy #Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Masdar

Abu Dhabi Launches World's First 24/7 Solar PV and Battery Storage Gigascale Project

In a historic announcement, Abu Dhabi has officially launched the world's first large-scale project aimed at providing round-the-clock solar energy in coordination with advanced battery storage systems. This landmark event was witnessed by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with the support of Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC). The initiative represents a key milestone in the UAE's ongoing transition to renewable energy, setting the stage for enhanced stability and reliability in power supply.

This innovative project will feature an impressive solar photovoltaic plant capable of generating 5.2 gigawatts (GW) of power, complemented by a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a capacity of 19 gigawatt-hours (GWh). With this setup, the project is set to deliver up to 1 gigawatt of baseload power daily, marking it as the largest combined solar and battery energy storage system globally. This endeavor not only signifies the potential to source uninterrupted clean energy but also underscores Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead in the renewable energy sector.

His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, highlighted that intermittent energy supply has long been a hurdle for the renewable energy sector. He stated, "The ability to provide clean power day and night has been a critical challenge, and with this groundbreaking initiative, we are poised to overcome it." The announcement showcases the UAE's commitment to harnessing sustainable energy solutions, providing a template for other nations to follow.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, the Minister of Investment and the CEO of ADQ, also shared insights regarding the project, emphasizing how it paves the way for integrating solar power with advanced energy storage, thereby driving significant advancements in sustainability and significantly reducing carbon emissions. "This project is not just about energy; it is about guiding the UAE towards a robust and sustainable economic future," he remarked.

The solar PV and BESS facility aims to address challenges related to the intermittency of renewable energy, paving the way for seamless integration into existing energy grids. The 19GWh battery storage component will facilitate a smooth transition of solar power, ensuring that the energy produced is consistently available.

Abu Dhabi is evolving into a central hub for renewable energy innovation as international interest grows in sustainable energy sources. Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, stated that launching this project would set a new global standard for sustainable energy development. He expressed confidence that this initiative will play a crucial role in decarbonizing the energy sector while providing the necessary energy for critical industries, including AI and other advanced technologies.

Notably, this project is expected to create over 10,000 new jobs, demonstrating its potential for not only environmental but also economic benefits. Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, reflected, "This is our largest project to date, and its scale speaks to our determination to address renewable energy challenges and drive innovation forward."

By integrating cutting-edge renewable technologies and energy storage solutions, the initiative further solidifies the UAE's strategic energy plans and reaffirms its commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050. This monumental initiative also complements the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050, which emphasizes energy security and sustainability.

Looking Ahead: Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

This launch coincides with the ongoing Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), a platform convening global leaders to address pressing sustainability challenges through meaningful dialogue and collaborative action. For over 15 years, ADSW has served as a catalyst for advancing the global sustainability agenda, and with the introduction of this revolutionary project, it is a clear demonstration of what is achievable when commitment meets innovation.

The UAE’s clean energy revolution is gaining momentum, and with projects like this, the country showcases its vision and determination to lead on the global stage, paving the way for a sustainable future.