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Abu Dhabi changes the game with solar energy: WORLD'S first 24/7 power grid

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 23/01/2025 às 12:59
Abu Dhabi changes the game with solar energy: WORLD'S first 24/7 power grid
Solar energy will be captured by millions of panels during the day and stored in giant batteries with a capacity of 19 GWh. At night, this stored energy will be released, ensuring that the electricity grid operates without interruption.

With an investment of US$6 billion, Abu Dhabi is betting on solar energy with a 5,2 GW plant and 19 GWh of storage, ensuring continuous and sustainable supply, day and night, with cutting-edge Chinese technology.

With a $6 billion solar power project, Abu Dhabi is building the first large-scale solar plant designed to operate 24/7. The secret? A stunning combination of solar panels and advanced energy storage.

The billion-dollar project that will transform the future of energy

The project is nothing short of revolutionary. It will have a 5,2 GW photovoltaic plant integrated with a battery storage system with a capacity of 19 GWh. This means that excess energy generated during the day will be stored to ensure continuous supply at night.

In addition to powering millions of homes, the plant will be able to provide up to 1 GW of baseload power to the grid, which is traditionally powered by sources such as coal and gas. This is a giant step towards replacing fossil fuels with renewable sources.

A solution to solar energy’s biggest challenge

The Abu Dhabi solar plant is designed to generate 5,2 GW of energy, a gigantic capacity, enough to supply millions of homes. The 19 GWh storage system allows the excess energy generated during the day to be stored and released at times of peak demand, ensuring a constant and balanced supply.
The Abu Dhabi solar plant is designed to generate 5,2 GW of energy, a gigantic capacity, enough to supply millions of homes. The 19 GWh storage system allows the excess energy generated during the day to be stored and released at times of peak demand, ensuring a constant and balanced supply.

Solar energy has always faced a major problem: its intermittency. During the day, production is high, but what happens at night or on cloudy days? That's where the storage system comes in. With a capacity of 19 GWh, the project's batteries ensure that the energy generated by the sun can be used at any time.

Think of it as a giant thermal storage box for energy, keeping it available for when it’s needed most. This technology not only solves one of the biggest challenges facing renewable energy, but also redefines the role of solar power in the world.

Strategic partnership with China and other technology giants

To make this dream a reality, Abu Dhabi is counting on major partners. Companies such as JA Solar and Jinko Solar will supply 2,6 GW of solar panels with TopCon technology, which offers higher efficiency and lower degradation over time.

The batteries will be supplied by China's CATL, renowned for its advanced technology that promises zero degradation in five years. In addition, giants such as POWERCHINA and India's Larsen & Toubro are leading the construction of the plant, which will create 10 direct jobs.

Sustainability and jobs

The benefits of the solar project go beyond power generation. It is part of the UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and diversify its energy sources.

And it doesn't stop there: around 10 direct jobs will be created during the construction of the plant, positively impacting the local and global economy. It is a clear example of how sustainability and economic development can go hand in hand.

A milestone on the path to a green UAE

This bold project is a reflection of the UAE’s long-term vision. During COP28 in Abu Dhabi, world leaders highlighted the urgency sustainable energy solutions. Sultan al Jaber, chairman of Masdar and a key figure in the initiative, made it clear that this project is just the beginning.

“We are transforming renewable energy into a reliable baseload source, something that has never been done before at scale,” said al Jaber. It is a milestone that puts Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global sustainability innovation.

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Marister
Marister
23/01/2025 15:35

Perfect!🇦🇪Ⓜ️♾️

in this
in this
23/01/2025 19:27

Congratulations, someone has to move before everyone sees it.

Nilton Baptist of Oliveira
Nilton Baptist of Oliveira
23/01/2025 22:55

It would be interesting and relevant

Last edited 17 days ago by Nilton Batista de Oliveira
Rafaela Fabris

He talks about innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in the CPG, he updates daily on opportunities in the Brazilian job market. Suggestions for topics: rafafabris11@gmail.com

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