Solar energy expansion in UAE dominates worldwide gains in 2025
In a significant stride towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, the UAE and various international partners are spearheading numerous solar energy projects across multiple continents.
One of the most notable developments is the official groundbreaking of a 50-megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Sakai, Central African Republic (CAR) by Global South Utilities (GSU). This project marks a major step forward in the country's energy access and clean energy transition, with the potential to supply clean electricity to over 300,000 households.
Meanwhile, GSU has partnered with Egypt's AH Industrial Management, China's JA Solar, and Bahrain's Infinity Capital to develop an integrated solar industrial complex in Ain Sokhna, worth $220 million (approximately AED810 million).
Masdar, the national company of the UAE, has also accelerated its international expansion in 2025. The company has recently acquired a 49.99% stake in four solar plants from Endesa in Spain, strengthening its presence in the Iberian Peninsula. Masdar has also signed MoUs with Indonesia's state-owned electricity company, PT PLN, to advance the development of floating solar power projects in Indonesia.
The UAE's solar initiatives span across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Masdar, in partnership with GD Power and Korea Electric Power Corporation, reached financial close for the 2-gigawatt Al Sadawi solar photovoltaic project in Saudi Arabia. Masdar and PLN have also signed an agreement to explore the potential expansion of Masdar's 145MWac Cirata Floating Photovoltaic Power Plant in Indonesia.
In addition, the UAE, Italy, and Albania have signed a tripartite partnership to develop large-scale renewable energy projects in Albania, focusing on solar, wind, and hybrid solutions. Masdar and PLN have also signed an MoU to develop a floating solar power plant at the Jatigede Dam reservoir in West Java, with completion scheduled for 2027.
The Yemeni renewable energy sector has also seen significant progress with the expansion of the Aden Solar Power Plant and the commissioning of the Shabwah Solar Power Plant, led by GSU. The Shabwah Solar Power Plant is now operational, supplying clean electricity to around 330,000 households.
UAE-based Global South Utilities has also signed two agreements with the Government of Madagascar to expand renewable energy capacity and advance the country's clean energy transition.
Notably, the "Atum Solar Egypt" project will cover 200,000 square metres and include a 2 GW solar cells factory for exports and a 2 GW solar modules factory to serve Egypt and Africa.
The UAE's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change is evident in these projects. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has inaugurated a 6.3-megawatt solar power plant in the Comoros, funded with AED25.7 million (US$7 million). This project enhances the nation's energy infrastructure, helping meet growing energy demands and stimulate economic growth.
The project to develop a 6.3-megawatt solar power plant in the Comoros was financed and realized by Weolis Photovoltaique Sarl using SMA Solar Technology AG components, specifically SMA inverters.
As the world continues to grapple with climate change and energy security, the UAE and its partners are setting a strong example for a sustainable and clean energy future.
