Abu Dhabi’s ambitious aspirations to increase solar power output to 10GW by 2030 are expected to be significantly aided by the Zarraf Solar PV project.
Zarraf Solar PV Issued Request for Proposals
Pre-qualified businesses have been asked to submit bids for the 1,500 megawatt (MW) Zarraf solar photovoltaic (PV) project by the Emirates Water and Electricity Company (Ewec). A major contribution to the emirate’s renewable energy objectives will come from this greenfield independent power producer (IPP) project.
Effects on CO2 Emissions and Homes
About 160,000 houses might be powered by the Zarraf Solar PV project once it is up and running. It is also anticipated to help Abu Dhabi’s attempts to lessen its carbon footprint by reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by up to 2.4 million metric tons per year.
Promoting Abu Dhabi’s Goals for Solar Power
The Zarraf project, which is Ewec’s fifth utility-scale solar PV project, is in line with the emirate’s plan to raise solar power capacity to at least 10 gigawatts (GW) by 2030. With 18GW of solar PV capacity operational, Ewec predicts that by 2035, solar energy would supply 60% of the emirate’s total power consumption.
The process of pre-qualification and bidding
The expression of interest (EoI) phase, which was started in October 2024, is followed by the bidding procedure. Pre-qualified to submit detailed ideas under the request for proposals (RFP) stage are 16 of the 20 firms and consortiums who showed interest. The RFP contains the project’s technical specifications and requirements.
Project Scope and Partnership Framework
The Zarraf Solar PV facility and its associated infrastructure will be developed, financed, built, operated, and maintained by the chosen bidder or consortium. The winning bidder will control up to 40% of the project company’s stock structure, with the Abu Dhabi government indirectly owning the other 60%.
Extended-Duration Power Purchase Contract
A long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) between the project and Ewec will govern its operations. This energy purchase agreement is a cost-effective way to fulfill future energy needs because it guarantees that the government entity will only pay for the net electrical energy supplied by the solar facility.
Deadline for Submissions and Next Actions
The second quarter of 2025 is the deadline for submitting RFPs. The project will proceed as a pillar of Abu Dhabi’s sustainable energy transition if the successful bidder is chosen.
