Dewa to undertake study on floating solar PV plants

Dubai aims to generate 25% of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030 and 75% by 2050

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 24, 2019.  -- Press conference to announce new developments in the fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum solar park.  --  Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa.
Victor Besa/The National
Section:  BZ
Reporter:  Alkesh Sharma
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Dubai Electricity and Water Authority is undertaking feasibility study for floating solar photovoltaic plants as part of the emirate's efforts to boost clean energy generation.

The state utility issued a request for proposals on Sunday to appoint consultants for the study, development and construction of the scheme.

The consultant chosen by Dewa will undertake a feasibility study, gauge the technical requirements for floating solar PV plants, environment and marine assessments, as well as plans for electrical transmission and safety, Dewa said.

Dubai aims to generate 25 per cent of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2030 and 75 per cent by 2050, as part of its clean energy drive.

Dewa is also building the world's largest solar energy park in Dubai's desert as the emirate looks to reduce reliance on natural gas as the main source of energy for electricity. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is expected to generate 5,000 megawatts of electricity by 2030 is in its fourth phase of development.

Dubai’s utilities sector will require Dh86 billion investment over the next five years, with 45 per cent of it coming from the private sector.

The state utility is also evaluating bids for the Gulf region’s first hydroelectric power plant at Hatta with a 250MW capacity with awards for the scheme expected in three months.