Second Masdar Talks explores pioneering Shams project

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Shams, one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power plants, remains a pillar of the UAE’s clean energy strategy, attendees of the second edition of the Masdar Talks Instagram Live series heard earlier today. 

Fatima Al Suwaidi, Senior Analyst, Development & Investment at Masdar spoke to Majed Al Awadhi, General Manager of Shams since 2018. 
The largest project of its kind in the world when inaugurated in 2013, the power plant has paved the way for other large-scale solar projects in the UAE while also developing Emirati talent in the renewables sector.

“Shams’ operations are almost entirely managed by our in-house experts, with very limited help from third-party contractors. I can proudly say that we have more than 85 percent Emirati nationals managing the project,” said Al Awadhi.

Al Awadhi also revealed that Shams will soon open a new visitor experience center, dedicated to raising public awareness about renewable energy:
“We want to reach out to the younger generation particularly and give back to the community in the Al Dhafra region. We want to it become a place where students, tourists and business visitors can learn about renewable energy in the UAE and the different technologies used.”

Located in Madinat Zayed in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, Shams displaces about 175,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, the equivalent of planting 1.5 million trees or removing 15,000 cars from Abu Dhabi’s roads. 

Al Awadhi also explained that the power plant saves nearly 200 million gallons of water per year thanks to its advanced recycling technology. 
Shams Power Company is a joint venture between Masdar, Total and the Abu Dhabi Retirement & Pensions Fund. 

Watch a recording of the session here.