Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has taken a significant step towards advancing renewable energy infrastructure in the UAE by issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of the 1,500-megawatt (MW) Khazna Solar Photovoltaic (PV) project, situated in the Al Khazna area of Abu Dhabi.
The RFP targets qualified developers and consortiums who successfully cleared the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage held in September 2023. Out of 27 companies and consortiums that submitted EOIs, 19 entities have progressed to the RFP stage after satisfying the qualification criteria outlined in the Statements of Qualification.
Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, emphasized the strategic significance of solar PV development in the UAE's journey towards decarbonizing its electricity supply. Al Ali stated, “The development of solar PV is a strategic pillar in our mission to decarbonize electricity supply in the UAE, given that it is one of the most cost-effective and low-carbon intensive solutions for electricity generation.”
The Khazna Solar PV project marks a pivotal milestone in EWEC's planned expansion of solar PV capacity between 2027-2037, aligning with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. Al Ali highlighted the importance of collaboration with best-in-class partners to establish a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
With a target of generating nearly 50 percent of its electricity from renewable and clean energy sources by 2030, solar energy plays a crucial role in EWEC's objectives. Once operational, the Khazna Solar PV project, alongside existing solar projects like Noor Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra Solar PV, and Al Ajban Solar PV, will significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing energy sustainability in the region.
The Khazna Solar PV project encompasses various stages, including development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership of the plant and associated infrastructure. The successful developer or consortium will have up to 40 percent equity ownership, with the remaining held indirectly by the Abu Dhabi Government.
EWEC will enter into a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with the selected developer or consortium, structured to facilitate the purchase of net electrical energy supplied by the plant.
Responses to the RFP are anticipated in Q3 2024, with EWEC scheduled to conduct a public event to confirm participating companies and consortiums.
