Acwa Power and DEWA reach agreement for conversion of Hassyan Power Plant to natural gas
The step is in support of diversifying Dubai’s energy mix through the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050
An agreement has been signed between Acwa Power and Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for the conversion of the 2,400MW Hassyan Power Plant from clean coal to natural gas. The move will result in an entirely coal-free Acwa Power portfolio and is said to be in line with the company’s strategy to lead the way to de-carbonisation, a greater focus on renewables and transitional low CO2 projects, and to its 2050 net-zero emissions target.
Acwa Power owns a net stake of 26.95% of Hassyan Power Plant. The complex includes a water desalination facility with a production capacity of 120 Million Imperial Gallons of Water per Day (MIGD) using Reverse Osmosis (RO) based on the Independent Water Producer (IWP) model.
“This step supports Dubai’s energy supply security by diversifying the energy mix through the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai’s carbon neutrality strategy 2050 to provide 100% of the energy production capacity from clean energy sources by 2050. The move is also in line with international efforts to reduce relying on high carbon emissions energy sources. The initiative is consistent with the pivotal role that gas is expected to play in enabling economic growth in the UAE over the next fifty years,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy.
“We are implementing a number of programmes and mechanisms within the energy and water sector to make Dubai a carbon neutral economy by 2050. To achieve this, we are moving steadily with our initiatives that reduce carbon emissions. Dubai has a clear strategy and specific goals to increase the share of renewable and clean energy in the energy mix,” stated Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA and Chairman of Hassyan Energy.
He concluded, “Natural gas is considered a safe and environmentally friendly source of energy. The Hassyan natural gas power complex will be an addition to the Jebel Ali power and water desalination complex, which is one of the main pillars for providing Dubai with reliable, efficient and high-quality electricity and water services.”
