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UAE: 1 GW solar project launched

In a country where development projects are often bold, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a solar park that, when completed, will be worth some 1,000 megawatts (MW).

The first 10 MW stage of the solar park should be realized by the end of 2013. Image: flickr/eGuide Travel.

The project will cost AED12 billion (USD3.25 billion) and will cover 48 square kilometers. The Supreme Council of Energy in Dubai will implement the project, which they hope to complete by 2030. The council hopes to complete the first stage, worth 10 MW, by the end of 2013. The first stage will be entirely funded by the state energy body.

The solar park has been given the name Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.

When completed, the solar park will be operated by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, which at present has an installed capacity of close to 7.5 GW.

Najeeb Zaafrani, CEO of the Supreme Council of Energy, has been quoted in the Gulf News as saying: "Currently in Dubai 4.5 MW of power is generated by solar energy."

The Gulf News also reports that bids for the engineering consultancy services for the 10 MW are under evaluation now, while tenders for developers are expected to open in June.