Emerge, a joint venture between the UAE-based Masdar and France’s EDF, has signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi’s leading curator of experiences Miral to deploy on-site solar energy systems at the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi theme park that is currently under construction on Yas Island.
The project, which will have a capacity of 8.2 megawatts (MW), will see rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed at the marine-life mega-development on Yas Island, including the main building.
“Rooftop solar PV could provide approximately 6 percent of the United Arab Emirate’s total power generation by 2030,” according to the International Renewable Energy Agency’s REmap 2030 report.
Emerge will provide a full turnkey solution, including design, procurement, and construction, as well as operation and maintenance services.
Mr. Marc Swanson, Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment said that, “This agreement reflects SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s alignment with our efforts to adopt efficient and innovative solutions across our parks. Working with our partners on the first SeaWorld marine-life theme park outside of the United States, we are excited to share and exchange our experiences with the region and come together for a better environment.”
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi CEO – Miral
“Our agreement with Emerge marks an important step in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s sustainability strategy. The deployment of new solar energy systems is consistent with our progress towards further leveraging the capacity of sustainable sources across our developments. This partnership, a significant environmental milestone, underscores our commitment to sustainability as we strengthen Yas Island’s position as a global destination within the Emirates’ tourism ecosystem.”
“This project demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to finding innovative ways of achieving its clean energy objectives and increasing renewable energy usage. By leveraging the local and international experience of Masdar and EDF – both leading companies in the energy sector – the Emerge joint venture is ideally equipped to support Miral’s ongoing environmental efforts and, in turn, help to drive sustainable development; within the regional leisure and tourism sector,” commented Mr. Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi represents the first new SeaWorld marine-life park in more than 30 years and the first outside the United States. The marine life theme park will offer unique immersive experiences that engage visitors from the UAE and worldwide, broadening their knowledge and appreciation of marine life.
