- UAE is championing one of the world’s largest solar-plus-storage renewable projects, generating 5.2GW solar power and incorporating a 19GWh battery storage system.
- Kazakhstan plans to launch its first hybrid 120MW power project, integrating gas, wind, and solar energy.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced one of the world’s largest solar-plus-storage projects, signalling a significant step in the region’s transition toward renewable energy. The project, unveiled during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) in January, is expected to generate 5.2 gigawatts (GW) of solar power and incorporate a 19-gigawatt-hour (GWh) battery storage system.
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and chairman of state-owned renewables company Masdar, disclosed this at ADSW’s opening ceremony. He highlighted that the battery storage capacity would enable the plant to provide up to 1GW of continuous baseload power, ensuring a reliable energy supply even when sunlight is unavailable.
The massive renewable energy initiative, developed in partnership with Emirates Water & Electricity Co. and other stakeholders, is set to be built in Abu Dhabi. However, specific location details have not yet been disclosed. The project aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
In a related development, Kazakhstan is planning to launch its first hybrid power project, integrating gas, wind, and solar energy. Finnish technology group Wärtsilä will supply key equipment.
The new 120-megawatt (MW) power plant, currently under construction in the Mangystau region, will rely on six Wärtsilä 46TS-SG gas-fueled large bore engines to ensure efficient power generation.
Kazakhstan Caspian Offshore Industries (KCOI), the project’s main contractor, placed the equipment order in late 2024. In addition to the gas-powered plant, the hybrid project will feature a 77MW wind farm and a 50MW solar power facility.
Once completed, the project will supply electricity to oil and gas exploration sites in the region, supporting Kazakhstan’s growing energy demand while incorporating renewable sources.
KCOI CEO Mirko Borghesi stated, “This is the first hybrid project of its kind in Kazakhstan, and we are excited to pioneer a new era of sustainable energy solutions.”
Wärtsilä will deliver the equipment by the end of 2025, with full project commissioning expected by mid-2026. The initiative represents a significant milestone in Kazakhstan’s efforts to modernise its energy sector and integrate cleaner technologies.
The announcements from the UAE and Kazakhstan reflect a broader push toward renewable energy across the Middle East and Central Asia. Countries in these regions increasingly invest in solar, wind, and hybrid energy solutions to enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and diversify their economies.
With global energy markets shifting toward sustainability, projects like these could serve as blueprints for other nations aiming to balance energy needs with environmental goals.