In a significant stride towards sustainability, the Emirate of Sharjah marked a pivotal moment with the commencement of the largest solar installation to date. Spearheaded by the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC) in partnership with Emerge Limited, a joint venture between Masdar and the EDF Group, the 60MWp ground-mounted solar PV plant located at SNOC’s Sajaa Gas Complex promises to revolutionize the region’s energy landscape.
This ambitious project is expected to generate ample clean energy, capable of offsetting a staggering 66,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. To put this into perspective, it equates to removing over 14,600 cars from the road each year. Such a feat underscores SNOC’s steadfast commitment to decarbonization, aligning closely with its goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2032.
By significantly reducing its reliance on traditional fossil fuels, SNOC aims not only to bolster its operational sustainability but also to embrace a cost-effective avenue for procuring clean energy. This initiative dovetails with the United Arab Emirates’ ambitious Net-Zero 2050 strategy, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to sustainable development.
Hatem Al Mosa, CEO of SNOC, expressed his satisfaction with the milestone, highlighting its broader implications: “SNOC is delighted to reach this significant milestone on our path towards achieving Net-Zero by 2032 and supporting Sharjah’s sustainability agenda. Our collaboration with Emerge, Masdar, and EDF underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship.”
Michel Abi Saab, General Manager of Emerge, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the transformative potential of the project: “Emerge is proud to partner with SNOC on this landmark initiative. Through our turnkey solutions, we enable organizations like SNOC to embrace sustainable practices without initial financial burden. This project not only advances SNOC’s decarbonization goals but also secures a more economically viable energy future for Sharjah.”
Under the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) agreement, Emerge will oversee the entire project lifecycle for 25 years, covering financing, design, procurement, construction, operation, and maintenance of the solar modules. This holistic approach ensures seamless integration and sustainable management of the solar facility.
As construction commences on this monumental solar installation, all eyes are on Sharjah as it charts a course towards a greener, more sustainable future. This initiative not only underscores the Emirate’s leadership in renewable energy but also sets a benchmark for environmental stewardship in the wider region.
