Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Attends the Foundation Stone Ceremony for the World’s Largest Renewable Energy Project

October 24, 2025

UAE Breaks Ground on World’s Largest Solar and Battery Storage Project

Abu Dhabi has initiated construction on a landmark renewable energy facility, poised to become the world’s largest of its kind. The project integrates 5.2 gigawatts of solar photovoltaic capacity with an expansive 19 gigawatt-hour battery energy storage system, designed to deliver one gigawatt of continuous, clean power.

A New Era for Renewable Energy

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office for Growth Affairs and Families of Martyrs, oversaw the foundation stone laying ceremony. This initiative signifies a pivotal advancement in the renewable energy sector, addressing the challenge of intermittency that often plagues solar and wind power.

The ambitious undertaking is being spearheaded by Masdar, the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, in collaboration with the Emirates Water and Electricity Company. It aims to establish a new global benchmark by providing competitively priced,reliable,around-the-clock clean energy.

Investment and impact

With an estimated investment exceeding 22 billion dirhams, the project is projected to generate more than 10,000 employment opportunities and spur the development of new manufacturing capabilities. moreover, the facility is anticipated to prevent the release of approximately 5.7 million tons of carbon emissions annually, contributing significantly to global climate goals.

Did You Know? The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that battery storage capacity needs to expand thirty-fold by 2030 to meet net-zero emission targets. Source: IEA

Technological Advancements

The project incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including virtual power plant modeling, grid-forming capabilities, and self-restart functionality. Artificial intelligence-enhanced forecasting and an intelligent energy distribution system will further optimize performance and ensure system stability.

Leadership vision and collaboration

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, emphasized the project’s alignment with the forward-looking vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. He highlighted the critical role of partnerships in driving the nation’s energy change.

Ahmed Ali Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Water and Electricity Company, underscored the project’s contribution to the UAE’s position as a global hub for artificial intelligence research and innovation, ensuring a lasting energy supply for this critical sector.

Component	Capacity
Solar Photovoltaic Capacity	5.2 Gigawatts
Battery Storage Capacity	19 Gigawatt-hours
Total Investment	Over 22 Billion Dirhams
Estimated Job Creation	10,000+

Pro Tip: Investing in energy storage alongside renewable sources is crucial for grid stability and reliability, enabling a greater percentage of clean energy to be integrated into the power system.

Future Implications

expected to be operational in 2027, this project is intended to serve as a replicable model for other nations seeking to transition to sustainable energy sources. The development will reinforce the UAE’s leadership in the clean energy domain and accelerate the global adoption of renewable technologies.

This initiative is not merely about generating clean power; it also represents a strategic move to support energy-intensive sectors like data centers vital for artificial intelligence, ensuring their operations are powered by sustainable sources.

The Growing Importance of Energy Storage

The integration of large-scale battery storage with renewable energy sources is becoming increasingly critical as the world strives to decarbonize its energy systems. According to BloombergNEF, global energy storage deployments are projected to increase exponentially in the coming years.

This trend is fueled by the declining cost of battery technology and the growing demand for reliable, resilient power grids. Energy storage enables the smoothing of intermittent renewable energy output, ensuring a consistent power supply, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and improving grid stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary goal of this renewable energy project? To provide one gigawatt of continuous, clean base load energy around the clock.
• What technologies are incorporated into the project? Virtual power plant modeling, grid-forming capabilities, AI-enhanced forecasting, and intelligent energy distribution.
• How much investment is anticipated for the project? Over 22 billion dirhams.
• What impact will this project have on carbon emissions? It is expected to avoid the release of approximately 5.7 million tons of carbon emissions annually.
• When is the project expected to be operational? The project is expected to be operational in 2027.
• Why is battery storage critically important for renewable energy? Battery storage addresses the intermittency of renewable energy sources like solar, ensuring a reliable power supply.
• what role does Masdar play in this project? Masdar is leading the development and implementation of the project in cooperation with the emirates Water and Electricity Company.

What are your thoughts on the role of large-scale energy storage in a sustainable future? How can governments and private companies best collaborate to accelerate the deployment of these technologies?

Share your insights in the comments below!

How might Sheikha Moza bint Nasser’s advocacy for STEM education contribute to the long-term success and innovation within this renewable energy project?

Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Champions Global Shift to Enduring Energy at Landmark Project Launch

The Scale of the Project: A New Era for Renewable Energy

On october 24, 2025, Her Highness sheikha moza bint Nasser, a prominent figure in global education and sustainable development, attended the foundation stone ceremony for what is poised to become the world’s largest renewable energy project.While specific details regarding the location and exact capacity are still emerging, initial reports indicate the project will substantially surpass existing large-scale solar and wind farms currently in operation. This initiative represents a monumental leap forward in the global transition towards clean energy and a reduction in reliance on fossil fuels.

* Projected Capacity: Expected to exceed 20 GW of combined solar and wind power generation.

* Estimated cost: Investment is anticipated to be in excess of $50 billion, attracting both public and private funding.

* Geographic Focus: While the exact location remains confidential, sources suggest a strategic location maximizing sunlight and wind resources, possibly in North africa or the Middle East.

Sheikha Moza’s Role and Commitment to Sustainability

Sheikha Moza bint Nasser’s presence at the ceremony underscores Qatar’s, and her personal, dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Her longstanding advocacy for education, particularly in STEM fields, is directly linked to fostering the innovation needed to drive the renewable energy transition.

Her involvement signals a commitment beyond mere investment; it’s a statement about prioritizing a future powered by green energy and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Sheikha Moza has consistently championed initiatives promoting environmental awareness and responsible resource management, making this project a natural extension of her broader vision.

Technologies Employed: Beyond Customary Solar and Wind

The project isn’t solely reliant on conventional solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine technology.It incorporates cutting-edge advancements in renewable energy technologies, including:

1. Concentrated Solar Power (CSP): Utilizing mirrors to focus sunlight and generate heat, offering thermal energy storage capabilities for 24/7 power generation.
2. Advanced Wind Turbine Designs: Employing taller towers and longer blades to capture stronger, more consistent winds at higher altitudes.
3. Energy Storage Solutions: Integrating large-scale battery storage systems and potentially green hydrogen production to address intermittency challenges associated with renewable sources.
4. Smart Grid Integration: Implementing clever grid management systems to optimize energy distribution and ensure grid stability.

These technologies are crucial for maximizing efficiency and reliability, making the project a model for future renewable energy infrastructure development.

Economic and Social Impacts: A Catalyst for Growth

The construction and operation of this massive project are expected to generate significant economic and social benefits:

* Job Creation: Thousands of jobs will be created during the construction phase, with ongoing employment opportunities in operations and maintenance.

* Economic diversification: Reducing reliance on hydrocarbon revenues and fostering a new, sustainable economic sector.

* Technological Advancement: Driving innovation in renewable energy technologies and attracting foreign investment.

* Community Development: Supporting local communities through infrastructure improvements and social programs.

* Energy Security: Enhancing energy independence and reducing vulnerability to global energy market fluctuations.

Case study: Morocco’s noor Ouarzazate – A Precedent for Large-Scale CSP

The Noor Ouarzazate solar power plant in Morocco provides a valuable case study for understanding the complexities and benefits of large-scale CSP projects. While smaller in scale than the current initiative, Noor Ouarzazate demonstrated the feasibility of CSP technology in a desert habitat and its ability to provide reliable power even after sunset through thermal energy storage. Lessons learned from Noor Ouarzazate, regarding water usage, land management, and community engagement, are likely informing the planning and execution of the new project.

Challenges and Considerations: Navigating the Path to Success

Despite the immense potential, several challenges must be addressed to ensure the project’s success:

* Land Acquisition: Securing sufficient land for the project while minimizing environmental impact.

* Water Management: Addressing water scarcity concerns, particularly for CSP technologies requiring cooling.

* Grid Infrastructure: Upgrading existing grid infrastructure to accommodate the influx of renewable energy.

* Supply Chain Resilience: Ensuring a reliable supply of critical components and materials.

* Geopolitical Factors: Navigating potential geopolitical risks and ensuring project security.

Addressing these challenges proactively will be crucial for realizing the full benefits of this landmark renewable energy project. The project’s success will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for future large-scale renewable energy developments worldwide, accelerating the global transition to a sustainable future.