The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has received four competitive proposals for the development of the Al Nouf 1 Independent Power Producer (IPP) project, marking a major step forward in Abu Dhabi’s energy expansion strategy.
The bids come from leading international energy players, including a consortium of Al Jomaih Energy and Water Company, Sembcorp Industries, and EDF Power Solutions; another group comprising ENGIE, Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation (KIND), and Korea Western Power Company (KOWEPO); a partnership between Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) and Etihad Water and Electricity; and Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation.
UAE’s Largest Carbon-Capture-Ready Gas Plant
Al Nouf 1 is set to become the largest single-site carbon-capture-ready Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant in the UAE, with a generation capacity of up to 3.3 gigawatts (GW). The project will deploy advanced turbine technologies known for high efficiency and performance, setting a new benchmark in power generation.
Strategic Location and Future-Ready Design
The plant will be developed within the newly established Al Nouf Complex in Abu Dhabi, a coastal site designed to serve as a major hub for power and water production. The location has been strategically selected to support efficient electricity generation alongside low-carbon reverse osmosis (RO) desalination.
The complex is designed with scalability in mind, offering infrastructure capacity for future utility-scale energy projects. This aligns with EWEC’s broader vision of creating integrated energy clusters that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.
Supporting Renewable Energy Transition
According to EWEC CEO Ahmed Ali Alshamsi, the strong interest from global developers highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as a hub for energy infrastructure investment.
He emphasised that flexible, high-efficiency gas-fired plants like Al Nouf 1 will play a critical role in balancing renewable energy sources by providing reliable, dispatchable power and ensuring grid stability.
Advanced Technology and Sustainability Goals
The project will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twin technologies to optimise performance throughout its lifecycle. These innovations are expected to enhance operational efficiency while maintaining system resilience.
Additionally, the project will contribute to Emiratisation goals by creating opportunities for UAE nationals across key roles, supporting workforce development.
Timeline and Next Steps
Al Nouf 1 is expected to begin commercial operations in the third quarter of 2029. EWEC will now proceed with a detailed technical and commercial evaluation of the submitted proposals.
The project forms part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term strategy to achieve its Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035 and the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 initiative, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable energy development.
