Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has awarded a significant solar power project to a consortium of ENGIE and Masdar. This initiative, known as the Khazna Solar Photovoltaic (PV) AC independent power project, aims to generate 1.5 gigawatts (GW) of energy and is set to be developed in Abu Dhabi.
This large-scale project underscores the UAE’s commitment to renewable energy and aligns with its broader sustainability objectives. It is expected to play a crucial role in the country’s ongoing transition to cleaner energy sources, aiming to diversify its energy portfolio.
EWEC’s decision to partner with ENGIE and Masdar is strategic. ENGIE, a global leader in low-carbon energy solutions, and Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company, bring together substantial expertise and innovation in the solar energy sector. EWEC’s goal is to increase Abu Dhabi’s solar power generation capacity to 18GW by 2035. The collaboration signifies a strong commitment to advancing solar technology and efficiency.
The Khazna Solar PV project will contribute to the UAE’s national goal to increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix. This is part of an effort to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. Such projects are pivotal in driving forward the nation’s sustainability and carbon reduction targets.
Upon completion, the Khazna facility is anticipated to supply electricity to meet the needs of 160,000 households, providing a cleaner source of power that will reduce carbon emissions by over 2.4 million tonnes annually. The solar project will feature nearly three million solar panels.
A power purchase agreement (PPA) was agreed upon between EWEC and ENGIE/Masdar. As part of the PPA, EWEC will only pay for the net electrical energy provided by the facility. ENGIE and Masdar will design, finance, construct, and operate the plant. Financial closure is expected by the end of the fourth quarter of 2025.
“Khazna Solar PV, our fourth world-leading utility-scale solar project, is a strategic asset that significantly accelerates our journey towards achieving the UAE’s renewable energy targets. By commissioning and deploying transformative and world-leading renewable energy projects, EWEC is taking tangible actions that are pivotal in accelerating the UAE’s energy transition to a carbon-neutral future, supporting the country’s sustainability and socioeconomic objectives.” – Ahmed Ali Alshamsi, CEO, EWEC
The project involves substantial investment and development, focusing on harnessing the region’s abundant solar resources effectively. The successful execution of such a project requires careful planning and expertise, ensuring operation efficiency and sustainability.
“Masdar is proud to collaborate with EWEC and ENGIE on this gigawatt-scale project, which will support the UAE’s clean energy journey. The Khazna Solar PV project continues our longstanding partnership with EWEC, changing how the UAE produces and consumes energy through pioneering, best-in-class solutions. As a global clean energy leader and the UAE’s renewables champion, Masdar is proud to be playing a key role in accelerating the energy system transformation, and this iconic solar project will support that transformation while creating opportunities for sustainable socioeconomic growth.” – Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO, Masdar
As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, initiatives like the Khazna Solar PV project underline the UAE’s proactive approach and leadership in renewable energy. This project not only supports environmental goals but also enhances the economic resilience of the nation by investing in future-oriented technologies.
With construction and commissioning phases to follow, the collaboration between EWEC, ENGIE, and Masdar is set to bolster the UAE’s position as a key player in global renewable energy markets. It further demonstrates the potential for large-scale solar energy projects in achieving environmental and economic milestones.
Source: EWEC awards development of 1.5GW Khazna Solar PV project to ENGIE and Masdar
