The Middle East’s Foremost Rooftop Solar Project
Originally published on the ECOreport.
The UAE just took another step in its shift to renewable electricity. Despite this region’s long association with oil, this is a finite resource which is worth far more as an export. A barrel of oil that sells for $7 on the subsidized domestic market can be sold for five times that amount overseas.
However, solar energy originates from an inexhaustible source and, at 6 cents a kilowatt hour, is 2/3 of the cost. Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are all investing in utility scale solar energy projects. Yesterday, the Phanes Group issued a press release stating it has received the contract to build the Middle East’s foremost rooftop solar project in Dubai.
Middle East’s Largest Rooftop Solar Project
Ninety thousand solar panels, capable of generating between 30 and 40 MW, will be installed on 19 rooftops in Dubai’s Jebel Ali free zone buildings, parking sheds, and the surrounding parking areas.
“This groundbreaking project marks a significant turning point for the rapid scale up of distributed solar energy in the United Arab Emirates, laying down a blueprint for other major national and locally based international players to capitalize on the cost competitive nature of solar technology and a smart regulatory structure,” said Martin Haupts, CEO of the Phanes Group, in a press release.
“What this also proves is that the capabilities and expertise required to execute projects of this scale exist within the UAE,” continued Haupts. “And that through strategic partnerships local firms can co-develop projects that support decarbonization and demonstrate regional leadership in future energy.”
75% From Renewable Sources By 2050
This is another step in Dubai’s push to obtain 25% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, and 75% by 2050.
“Our goal is to become the city with the smallest carbon footprint in the world by 2050. Every investment in the development of clean energy sources is at the same time an investment to protect the environment for future generations,” said Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Photo Credit: Sun setting over downtown Dubai. Taken from Festival City by the_dead_pixel via Flickr (CC BY SA, 2.0 License)
Reprinted with permission.
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