Largest Independent Thermal Power Plant Development in UAE

Power Plant Will Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Increase Fuel Efficiency

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making progress towards a sustainable energy future with the introduction of the Fujairah F3 Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant, set to be the largest independent thermal power plant in the country. According to Jasim Husain Thabet, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Energy Company’s (TAQA), the plant will generate up to 2.4 GW of electricity, powering 380,000 households. The plant will utilise the most efficient combined cycle technology in the region, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing fuel efficiency.

Thabet emphasised that gas would continue to play a crucial role in the energy transition, particularly as a reliable source of energy to complement renewables during times of high demand or low sunlight or wind.

Will replace older and inefficient gas power plants.

While the UAE has made progress in expanding its renewable energy capacity, natural gas still accounts for a significant percentage of the country’s electricity generation. The Fujairah F3 plant will replace older and inefficient gas power plants in the country, contributing to the UAE's goal of generating 50% of its electricity from clean sources by 2050. The plant is a joint venture between TAQA, Mubadala, and Marubeni Corporation, with TAQA and Mubadala owning 60% of the plant and Marubeni Corporation holding the remaining 40%.

Despite the limitations of renewables in terms of variability, intermittency, and storage, the Fujairah F3 plant can help integrate renewables seamlessly, reducing the country's reliance on natural gas. The plant's advanced "JAC"-class gas turbine technology will make it the most efficient gas power plant in the UAE, contributing towards reducing the country's carbon footprint.

In conclusion, the Fujairah F3 plant's introduction is a crucial step towards a more sustainable energy mix in the UAE, contributing towards the country's goal of generating 50% of its electricity from clean sources by 2050. The plant's advanced technology and efficiency make it an excellent complement to renewables, reducing the country's reliance on natural gas and contributing towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions.