Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), the UAE’s prominent company in the integrated planning, purchasing and supply of water and electricity, has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development of Madinat Zayed Independent Power Producer (IPP) Project in Abu Dhabi.
This project involves building a new Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) plant in Madinat Zayed, about 120 kilometers southwest of Abu Dhabi City. The new plant is expected to begin its commercial operations in Q3 2027, and will provide up to 1.5 gigawatts (AC) of backup power. The RFP shared with bidders include detailed requirements and technical parameters about the project to assist firms and consortiums in developing their proposals, with due date by Q4 2024.
As EWEC drives the UAE’s transition to renewable energy, Madinat Zayed plant plays a crucial role in ensuring a reliable energy supply while the country shifts to a decarbonized water and electricity system. These plants are significant for supporting the growth of solar power, offering essential flexibility during peak power demand periods and serving as a bridge to clean and renewable sources.
Othman Al Ali CEO – EWEC
“EWEC is accelerating the UAE’s energy transition, in line with our strategic mission to be a leader of change within the energy sector. Commissioning the development of flexible, gas-fired plants will enable us to incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar PV and wind into the nation’s sustainable energy mix even more rapidly. Natural gas has an important, transitional role to play in securing our system while we work towards a more sustainable future. As we move forward with the Madinat Zayed project, we look forward to receiving proposals from qualified companies and consortiums.”
The Madinat Zayed project will imitate the model of Abu Dhabi’s Independent Power Producer (IPP) program, where the developers sign long-term contract with EWEC as the sole procurer. This will include the development, financing, operation, maintenance and ownership of the plant with the developer or developer consortium owing up to 40 percent of the entity. The rest of the equity will be held indirectly by the government of Abu Dhabi.
