QAZAQ GREEN.  Abu Dhabi has unveiled the world's first large-scale, continuous solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage project during an event attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the initiative is spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), Masdar reports.

This groundbreaking project will generate up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of renewable energy daily, offering round-the-clock power supply and addressing one of the primary challenges of renewable energy: intermittency. It features a 5.2GW solar PV plant integrated with a 19-gigawatt-hour (GWh) battery energy storage system (BESS), making it the largest facility of its kind globally.

The launch was announced by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, alongside Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment and Group CEO of ADQ. Dr. Al Jaber highlighted the project's role in overcoming the limitations of renewable energy. “This facility transforms renewable energy into a reliable baseload power source, marking a significant milestone in the global clean energy transition,” he said.

The project is aligned with the UAE’s commitment to achieving its Net Zero by 2050 initiative and reflects its leadership in renewable energy innovation. It is also expected to support emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced energy solutions, ensuring their energy needs are met sustainably.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi emphasized the importance of integrating solar power with advanced battery storage, calling it a "new benchmark" for clean energy systems that solidify Abu Dhabi’s role as a global energy leader.

The facility is set to create over 10,000 jobs while reducing carbon emissions and ensuring a sustainable energy supply. Othman Al Ali, CEO of EWEC, said the project underscores Abu Dhabi’s leadership in utility-scale renewable energy and innovation. "This initiative will drive the UAE’s clean energy transition, supporting critical industries and ensuring energy security for future generations," he noted.

Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi called the project a “record-breaking” achievement. He highlighted its role in addressing energy intermittency, with advanced technology ensuring uninterrupted power supply around the clock.

The solar PV and BESS facility represents a critical step in the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, combining renewable energy with state-of-the-art storage solutions to meet evolving energy demands. By setting a new global standard for clean energy innovation, the UAE continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and leadership in the renewable energy sector.