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.
