The Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has announced the receipt of four competitive proposals for the development of the Al Nouf 1 Independent Power Producer (IPP) project, marking a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi's energy infrastructure expansion. The project is set to become the UAE's largest single-site carbon-capture-ready Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant, with a planned generation capacity of up to 3.3 GW.

Bidding Consortia and Competition

The bids were submitted by leading international consortia representing diverse global partnerships. The first consortium includes Al Jomaih Energy and Water Company, Sembcorp Industries, and EDF Power Solutions. A second group comprises ENGIE, Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation, and Korea Western Power Company.

The third bidding entity consists of Korea Electric Power Corporation alongside Etihad Water and Electricity. The fourth proposal was submitted by Sumitomo Corporation. EWEC will now proceed with a detailed technical and commercial evaluation of the submitted proposals.

Project Specifications and Technology

The Al Nouf 1 project will deploy advanced turbine technologies designed to deliver high efficiency and performance. The facility is being developed as a carbon-capture-ready Combined Cycle Gas Turbine plant, positioning it at the forefront of clean energy technology implementation in the region.

The project will incorporate advanced technologies,ies including artificial intelligence and digital twin systems, to optimize performance and improve operational flexibility. These technological integrations are designed to enhance the facility's operational capabilities and efficiency metrics.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure Development

The facility will be located within the newly designated Al Nouf Complex in Abu Dhabi, situated at a coastal site that has been strategically selected to support integrated power generation and low-carbon reverse osmosis desalination. The complex is being developed as a major hub for utility-scale energy and water projects, with infrastructure designed to accommodate future expansion.

EWEC stated that the project aligns with its broader strategy to create integrated energy clusters that enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. The development will play a critical role in supporting grid stability by providing dispatchable power capacity as renewable energy deployment accelerates across the UAE.

Timeline and Strategic Objectives

The Al Nouf 1 IPP is scheduled to achieve commercial operations by the third quarter of 2029. The project is expected to support Emiratisation objectives by creating opportunities for UAE nationals across key roles within the facility's operations.

Ahmed Ali Alshamsi highlighted Abu Dhabi's growing attractiveness as a global energy investment destination. He noted that strong participation from international developers reflects confidence in EWEC's procurement framework and long-term energy strategy. He further emphasized that integrating a large-scale, carbon-capture-ready gas plant is essential to managing renewable intermittency while maintaining progress toward decarbonization goals.

The project forms part of Abu Dhabi's broader clean energy ambitions, supporting targets set by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy under its Clean Energy Strategy 2035, as well as the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 initiative.

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