DEWA states new Phase of Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has announced 800 megawatts third phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.

The project, which is based on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, is another achievement that will put Dubai and the UAE at the forefront of the countries in the region in producing renewable and clean energy. DEWA is accepting proposals for a project consultant from 1 April to 3 May 2015. The project's tender is expected to be released in Q3 of 2015.

"DEWA's strategy for future projects is inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, that nothing is impossible. We derive this spirit from His Highness to achieve the ambition of Dubai to become number one worldwide. After getting the lowest global cost of production of photovoltaic (PV) energy for the second phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and doubling its capacity from 100 to 200 megawatts, we are pleased to announce the third project with a capacity of 800 megawatts. We are on the right track to achieve the Solar Park's total capacity of 3,000 megawatts," Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

"We are determined to continue building and developing a greener economy, to achieve the UAE Vision 2021 to achieve a sustainable environment in terms of air quality, conserving water resources, more reliance on clean energy, and implementing green development. We support the long-term Green Economy for Sustainable Development National initiative to build a green economy in the UAE. We also support Dubai Plan 2021 to establish Dubai as a smart and sustainable city, whose environmental elements are clean, healthy, and sustainable. Our efforts also complement the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 to diversify energy sources to include 71% from natural gas, 15% from solar energy, 7% from clean coal, and 7% from nuclear power. We are inspired in our resolve to achieve these ambitious goals from our wise leadership who support the plan to diversify our energy mix to ensure energy security, and build a sustainable, green future, for generations to come," added Al Tayer.

DEWA manages and operated the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is one of the largest renewable energy projects in the region. The 13MW first phase became operational in 2013. The consortium led by Saudi Arabia's ACWA and Spain's TSK was selected to implement the 200MW second phase of the Solar Park, which will be operational by 2017. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is one of the largest strategic renewable energy projects in the world that is based on the IPP model.
Source: WAM