The United Arab Emirates has initiated the largest comprehensive solar energy and battery storage project in the world, representing a significant achievement in the advancement of global clean energy.
The USD 6 billion project, which is being developed by Masdar alongside the Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), aims to provide 1 GW of renewable energy continuously throughout the day, thereby effectively addressing the issue of solar power variability.
Set to commence operations in 2027, this initiative includes a 5.2 GW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility combined with a 19 GWh battery energy storage system, which will be the largest and most advanced of its type in the world. Utilizing artificial intelligence for real-time forecasting, smart dispatch, and predictive analytics, the system aims to establish a new global standard for clean and dispatchable energy.
The project is anticipated to generate over 10,000 employment opportunities throughout its construction and operational stages, while also decreasing carbon emissions by around 5.7 million tons of CO₂ each year.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, the CEO of Masdar, stated that this initiative marks a significant milestone for the renewable energy industry. “This groundbreaking project, the largest and most ambitious undertaken by Masdar to date, serves as a model for the world, illustrating that renewable energy can be delivered continuously. By tackling the issue of intermittency, we can supply sustainable power to satisfy the rapidly increasing demand driven by developments in artificial intelligence and other technologies,” he remarked.
Ahmed Ali Alshamsi, the CEO of EWEC, emphasized that the initiative bolsters the UAE’s role as a frontrunner in innovation and sustainable development. “Abu Dhabi and the UAE serve as a worldwide center for artificial intelligence research, innovation, and implementation, and this initiative will guarantee that the energy requirements of this vital sector are fulfilled sustainably, fueling the next wave of economic advancement,” he stated.