TAQA Consortium Secures 2.6GW Taweelah C Power Project from EWEC

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has granted the Taweelah C Independent Power Producer (IPP) project to a consortium, primarily led by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA), alongside Aljomaih Energy and Water Company and Sembcorp Industries.

This innovative Taweelah C project will incorporate a 2.6-gigawatt Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power facility in Abu Dhabi, designed with an eye towards future carbon capture capabilities, aligning with the UAE's enduring energy transition objectives.

After awarding the project, EWEC formalized a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the consortium, which will be active until 2050, designating EWEC as the sole purchaser of the electricity produced by the plant.

TAQA will possess a 60 percent stake in the project, while Aljomaih Energy and Water Company and Sembcorp Industries will share the remaining 40 percent. In terms of operations and maintenance, TAQA will maintain a 40 percent interest, with the consortium holding a combined stake of 60 percent.

The design, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance responsibilities for the facility lie with the consortium, under the Abu Dhabi independent power producer framework.

EWEC emphasizes that the Taweelah C initiative is crucial in securing a stable electricity supply while accelerating the deployment of renewable energy. The company anticipates its solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity will surpass 30GW by 2035, with the new power plant aiding in the integration of this expanding renewable energy capacity into the grid.

Expected to achieve one of the most competitive capital expenditure rates per kilowatt-hour in the region, the project will provide flexible, efficient generation, thus furthering the UAE's decarbonization efforts.

According to TAQA, this initiative will augment its low-carbon power and water portfolio, contributing towards the ambitious target of 150GW of global power production capacity by 2030. Effective gas-driven generation will remain pivotal in supporting renewable energy integration and the UAE's net-zero aspirations.

Aljomaih Energy and Water Company regards the project as a significant milestone in enhancing its regional energy assets, while Sembcorp Industries reaffirms its commitment to advancing the UAE's energy transition via strategic alliances.

Deploying advanced H-class gas turbines from Siemens Energy, the Taweelah C power plant aims to deliver stable electricity to the Abu Dhabi grid, bolstering the integration of renewable energy sources.

Additionally, the project is projected to support the UAE's Emiratisation objectives by generating opportunities for local talent in crucial technical and operational roles.

The construction of the facility will proceed in synergy with EWEC and consortium partners, targeting the commencement of commercial operations in 2029.