Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has awarded the contract for the Taweelah C Independent Power Producer project to a consortium led by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company, Taqa, alongside Aljomaih Energy and Water Company and Singapore-based Sembcorp Industries.
The major energy project will see the development of a 2.6-gigawatt combined-cycle gas turbine power plant in Abu Dhabi, strengthening the emirate’s electricity supply while supporting its broader clean energy and carbon reduction goals.
EWEC confirmed that it has signed a power purchase agreement with the consortium extending until 2050. Under the arrangement, EWEC will serve as the sole purchaser of electricity generated by the facility. Taqa will retain a 60 percent stake in the project, while the remaining 40 percent will be held by the international partners.
The Taweelah C facility is designed with future carbon capture technologies in mind and is expected to play an important role in maintaining grid stability as Abu Dhabi expands renewable energy generation. Officials say the plant will help manage fluctuations linked to large-scale solar energy production while ensuring a reliable electricity supply.
Mohamed Almarzooqi, chief assets officer at EWEC, described the development as a significant step in the company’s long-term strategy.
He said the project supports EWEC’s efforts to balance energy security with environmental commitments, while helping meet rising electricity demand driven by economic and population growth.
EWEC expects renewable energy capacity in Abu Dhabi to exceed 30 gigawatts of solar photovoltaic generation by 2035. The Taweelah C project is intended to complement that expansion by providing flexible generation capacity capable of supporting greater integration of renewable sources into the power system.
The announcement comes as Abu Dhabi accelerates investment in clean and low-carbon energy infrastructure under the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035. Authorities have continued to expand solar and sustainable energy projects as part of national plans to achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century.
Dr Frank Possmeier, chief investment officer at Taqa Generation, said flexible gas-fired generation would remain essential in supporting renewable energy growth and advancing the country’s energy transition.
The facility will use Siemens Energy’s high-efficiency H-class gas turbines and is expected to begin commercial operations in 2029.
Beyond electricity generation, the project is also expected to support Emiratisation efforts by creating opportunities for UAE nationals during both the construction and operational phases.
Under Abu Dhabi’s independent power producer programme, Taqa, Aljomaih Energy and Water Company, and Sembcorp Industries will oversee the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the Taweelah C facility, marking another milestone in the emirate’s evolving energy landscape.
