Since the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park began development, business and energy stakeholders have been drawn to its mission to align with the emirate’s goal of optimum sustainability in the UAE by 2021.
Dubai’s version of UAE Vision 2021 — dubbed the Dubai Plan 2021 — echoes the nation’s desire to achieve a lighter footprint ecologically, conserve resources and embrace smart technology as the region adapts to the energy needs of the future. The recent 2015 U.N. Climate Conference in Paris provided a tangible context for the region’s goals as it drew pledges from world leaders, from presidents to kings, to vie for an international energy platform amenable to all parties.
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has also played an important role in raising local and regional standards for sustainable energy projects, having long supported the Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative launched by Mohammed Al Maktoum, for whom the park is named.
The Al Maktoum Solar Park has generated interest among developers and investors worldwide who are encouraged by Dubai’s progress in regulatory areas and its promotion of private sector partnerships in power projects. The park has already received various bids from global sources.
DEWA’s goal is to protect Dubai’s natural resources and guide the future of the energy industry by continuing to work on solar energy development while seeing to the emirate’s continued growth. Currently, DEWA is involved in scientific testing to measure atmospheric and light conditions at the park.
When completed, the park is expected to generate more than 1,000 megawatts by 2020 — and 5,000 by 2030.
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