UAE Aims To Introduce Efficient Gas-fired Power Plant in The Country

 Transition To A More Sustainable Energy

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is poised to introduce the most efficient gas-fired power plant in the country, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. The Fujairah F3 Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant, set to generate up to 2.4 gigawatts (GW) of electricity, will become the largest independent thermal power plant in the UAE. Positioned in Fujairah's Qidfa area, the plant will power approximately 380,000 households upon completion.

Featuring advanced "JAC"-class gas turbine technology and the most efficient combined cycle technology in the region, the Fujairah F3 plant will outshine its predecessors in terms of efficiency. Its launch will replace older and inefficient gas power plants in the country, offering enhanced flexibility and the integration of renewables. While the UAE is committed to expanding its renewable energy capacity, gas power continues to play a pivotal role in the country's energy mix.

The Fujairah F3 plant's cutting-edge combined cycle technology not only contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also improves fuel efficiency. By harnessing waste heat from the gas turbine exhaust and converting it into additional power, the plant minimises fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional gas power plants. This advancement aligns with the UAE's goal of generating 50% of its electricity from clean sources by 2050.

Using renewable Resources

Despite significant progress in renewable energy infrastructure, including the world's largest single-site solar energy plant (Noor Abu Dhabi) and the Barakah nuclear power plant, the UAE heavily relies on natural gas. The Fujairah F3 plant will facilitate the transition to a more sustainable energy mix while ensuring a stable power supply. It will serve as a complementary source to renewables, providing steady and reliable energy during periods of high demand or low sunlight and wind.

A joint venture between TAQA, Mubadala, and Marubeni Corporation, the Fujairah F3 plant reflects the UAE's commitment to collaboration in the energy sector. TAQA and Mubadala will collectively own 60% of the plant, with Marubeni Corporation holding the remaining 40%. The power purchase agreement and shareholder's agreement were signed in February 2020 between the Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), TAQA, and Marubeni Corporation, further solidifying the project's foundations.

With the Fujairah F3 Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Plant, the UAE embarks on a path towards a greener and more sustainable energy future, combining the benefits of gas power with renewable energy sources to achieve a balanced and efficient energy portfolio.