The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has invited proposals for the Zarraf Solar PV Independent Power Producer (IPP) project in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. This large-scale solar facility is designed to generate 1,500 MW (AC) of electricity, which could supply energy to around 160,000 homes. It is also expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 2.4 million metric tonnes annually.
The Zarraf Solar PV project is part of EWEC’s ongoing efforts to expand solar energy in Abu Dhabi. It will play a role in increasing the emirate’s solar power capacity to at least 10 GW by 2030. The project aligns with EWEC’s emissions reduction strategy, targeting a 36 percent decrease in power sector emissions intensity by the end of the decade.
The project’s bidding process began with an Expression of Interest (EOI) stage in October 2024. From 20 initial submissions, 16 companies and consortiums qualified for the next stage, receiving the Request for Proposals (RFP). The RFP outlines technical and financial requirements for developing, financing, constructing, operating, and maintaining the plant. The successful bidder or consortium will own up to 40 percent of the project, while the remaining equity will be retained by the Abu Dhabi Government.
The Zarraf Solar PV project will operate under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with EWEC, which will serve as the sole buyer of its electricity output. The PPA ensures that EWEC will pay only for the net electricity produced by the plant.
By 2035, EWEC projects that at least 18 GW of solar PV capacity will be operational in Abu Dhabi. This aligns with the Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035, which aims for renewable and clean energy sources to meet 60 percent of the emirate’s electricity needs. Proposals for the Zarraf project are due by the second quarter of 2025, after which a public event will reveal the submitted bids.
