- Abu Dhabi plans to develop 5,000 MW of new gas-fired power plants to enhance its energy capacity and support the UAE’s AI strategy.
- Taqa leads the project, considering Dhafra and Al-Nouf sites, with specialist firms assessing logistics.
- The new plants will provide flexibility, complement renewable energy efforts, and ensure a reliable power supply for future tech needs.
Abu Dhabi will boost its energy infrastructure by developing 5,000 megawatts (MW) of new gas-fired power plants. The Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa) will lead this initiative to support the UAE’s national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy.
The plan involves adding approximately 5,000 MW of new gas-fired power generation capacity. This expansion will strengthen the UAE’s energy base, crucial for advancing AI technologies. Taqa is currently negotiating with potential partners and equipment suppliers for these projects.
The sites under consideration are Dhafra and Al-Nouf, with Dhafra likely to be prioritised for development. Specialist consultancy firms will assess the details and logistics of the projects.
The new gas-fired facilities will modernise the UAE’s energy sector. They will meet AI’s growing demands and ensure a reliable and flexible power supply. The UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 emphasises the need for a strong energy foundation to attract talent, integrate AI into critical sectors, and establish effective regulations.
The new power plants will provide the flexibility and capacity necessary for this transformation. They will complement ongoing efforts to integrate renewable energy sources. The gas-fired plants will offer reliable electricity generation and adapt to changing demands.
These projects stand apart from other initiatives managed by Emirates Water & Electricity Company (Ewec). Ewec is working on the Taweelah C combined-cycle power plant, scheduled for 2028, and the Madinat Zayed open-cycle plant, planned for 2027. Both projects aim to enhance the stability of the UAE’s power grid while supporting renewable energy integration.
The Taweelah C plant will provide transitional capacity to support the growth of renewable energies. The Madinat Zayed project will offer backup capacity to handle rapid demand fluctuations. These projects reflect a pragmatic approach to energy diversification.
Ewec awarded its last major combined-cycle project, the Fujairah F3, to Marubeni Corporation in 2020. The new gas-fired projects continue the UAE’s strategy to increase energy resilience and meet the demands of a high-tech economy.
The UAE’s broader energy capacity-building framework aims to attract necessary investments and support continued growth. The new gas-fired power plants play a crucial role in this strategy, reinforcing the nation’s energy infrastructure while supporting technological advancement.
In summary, Abu Dhabi’s development of 5,000 MW of new gas-fired power plants represents a significant step in enhancing the UAE’s energy capacity. This expansion will support the country’s AI strategy and address future energy needs. The projects will provide the flexibility and reliability required for a high-tech economy and complement ongoing efforts in renewable energy.