Dubai’s inauguration of the fifth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park marks a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. Here are some key points about the project:

1. Largest single-site solar park: The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park aims to become the largest single-site solar park in the world with a planned capacity of 5,000 megawatts (MW) by 2030.
2. Capacity and clean energy generation: The fifth phase of the project has a capacity of 900 MW and is expected to provide clean energy to approximately 270,000 residences in Dubai. It will contribute to reducing carbon emissions by 1.18 million tonnes annually.
3. Implementation model and partnership: The project follows the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) holding a 60% stake and a consortium led by ACWA Power and Gulf Investment Corporation owning 40% through Shuaa Energy 3.
4. Lowest bid and record-breaking cost: DEWA achieved a world record by receiving the lowest bid of $1.6953 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the fifth phase, showcasing the competitiveness and cost-efficiency of the project.
5. Previous phases and project company: ACWA Power has previously worked on the second and fourth phases of the solar park, highlighting its involvement in Dubai’s renewable energy initiatives. DEWA and ACWA Power formed a project company called Noor Energy 1 for the design, construction, and operation of the 950MW fourth phase.
6. AI-based cleaning system: The fifth phase of the solar park is one of the first projects in the Middle East to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in an advanced robotic cleaning system for the operation and maintenance of photovoltaic panels.
7. Impact and future goals: The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, with a total investment of AED 50 billion, aims to reduce 6.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually upon completion. Dubai has set ambitious targets of generating 25% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030 and 100% by 2050 in alignment with the UAE’s broader vision.

The project underscores Dubai’s commitment to renewable energy, sustainability, and reducing carbon emissions, contributing to the city’s efforts to achieve its long-term environmental goals.