Larsen & Toubro secures contract for 1.8GWac solar power project in Dubai

The Renewable EPC arm of Larsen & Toubro, a renowned Indian multinational conglomerate, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the contract to develop a substantial 1800 MWac Solar Photovoltaic Plant in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This project, valued at a significant but undisclosed amount, represents a major step in renewable energy development in the region.

Set to be a part of the sixth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, this project will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in the UAE. The plant is expected to cut down approximately 2.4 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, making it a key contributor to the region’s sustainability efforts.

Spread over a sprawling area of 20 sq km, the project will be completed in three phases. It includes not only the Photovoltaic plant but also comprehensive evacuation and interconnection arrangements. This involves the construction of two Gas Insulated Substations, along with high voltage underground cabling and medium voltage distribution networks.

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, a leading entity in the UAE’s clean energy sector, has signed the Power Purchase Agreement with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). DEWA will hold a 60% stake in the project and be the sole off-taker of the power generated. This partnership underscores the collaborative efforts in the region to push forward renewable energy initiatives.

Commenting on this development, T. Madhava Das, Whole-Time Director & Sr. Executive Vice President (Utilities) at Larsen & Toubro, expressed gratitude towards Masdar and DEWA for their support. He emphasized Larsen & Toubro’s dedication to bringing innovative renewable energy solutions and project management expertise to the region. This project is a testament to the company’s commitment to aiding the economic development of the UAE while adhering to sustainable practices.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park holds the title of being the largest single-site solar park in the world based on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model. With a planned capacity of 5,000 MW by 2030, it is set to save over 6.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually upon completion. This project is a cornerstone in both the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and DEWA’s initiative for Net Zero emissions by 2050, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to a sustainable future.

This contract win for Larsen & Toubro signifies a major leap in renewable energy projects in the Middle East. It not only reinforces the company’s position as a leading player in the global energy sector but also aligns with the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals. The scale and technology involved in this project will likely set new benchmarks in solar energy efficiency and sustainability, proving to be a pivotal move in the global shift towards renewable energy sources.