UAE Launches First ‘Round the Clock’ 1GW Clean Energy Facility
Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a groundbreaking development, the UAE has launched the world’s first large-scale ‘round the clock’ gigascale project, combining solar power and battery storage. Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment, made the announcement alongside leaders from Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC).
A New Era of Clean Energy
This project marks a significant milestone in renewable energy, providing uninterrupted clean power every day. By integrating a 5.2GW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant with 19GWh of battery energy storage (BESS), the project will deliver 1GW of baseload power. As a result, the initiative enables renewable energy to be dispatched 24/7, transforming energy supply stability. Furthermore, this achievement represents the UAE’s growing commitment to sustainable energy.
Solving Renewable Energy’s Intermittency Issue
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber highlighted that intermittency has long been a challenge for renewable energy. However, with this new project, the UAE will produce reliable energy round the clock. By combining solar and battery storage, the project overcomes the challenge of providing consistent power day and night. Consequently, it ensures a stable, continuous energy supply.
UAE Round the Clock Energy Transformation
This UAE round the clock clean energy solution not only positions the country as a global leader in clean energy but also sets a new global standard. The integration of solar and advanced battery storage systems establishes a benchmark for renewable energy innovation. Moreover, the project supports critical sectors such as AI and emerging technologies, which require stable and reliable power sources.
A Landmark Step Toward Sustainable Growth
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, emphasized that the project will create over 10,000 new jobs. As a result, the UAE round the clock energy facility will drive technological advancements and fuel the country’s economic growth. Furthermore, Masdar’s collaboration with EWEC in developing this project demonstrates the UAE’s unwavering commitment to renewable energy.
UAE’s Vision for the Future
The new facility exemplifies the UAE’s long-term energy vision outlined in its Energy Strategy 2050. Importantly, this project is a pivotal step toward achieving the goals of the historic UAE Consensus at COP28. It will ultimately redefine the global clean energy landscape, ensuring reliable, sustainable power for generations to come.