The UAE has always been known for its eccentricity (they don’t know what to do with so much oil, of course). However, they have now taken a step in the opposite direction with the new renewable energy that is changing the world, starting with America. This is the 950 MW photovoltaic USO… in the middle of the desert. Maybe it’s a new example of megalomania, but it could be good news.
This photovoltaic UFO in Dubai is the latest petro-state eccentricity
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the world’s largest single-site solar installation aimed to reach up to 5,000MW by 2030. Maple Park is designed mainly in several phases that the systems and technologies differ with those of other phases.
The last project which they have commissioned is an integrated 700 MW CSP system with 250 MW PV. The CSP system in Planta Solabé is indeed one of the most powerful in the world, with one of the tallest solar power tower and the biggest thermal energy storage in the entire world.
Apart from the mirror known as the heliostat, this technology involves focusing light on the top of this tower; where it is used to heat molten salts. In this case, the heat is utilized in producing steam to generate turbines for production of electricity.
The largest photovoltaic concentrator in the world: 950 MW with this shape
The PV unit is another notable step in the creation of the solar park as it offers another 250 MW of green power. This phase of the project has become the least costly project to embark on in the provision of electricity at 2 cents per unit (4 USD cents per kilowatt hour) which makes it ideal for the region.
According to the information available, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park will facilitate the generation of electric power that will save more energy. It will be able to cut down the emission of 5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions on an annual basis, hence aiming to lessen the carbon footprint of Dubai.
The park is also expected to about deliver power to about 270,000 homes in Dubai and therefore it is seen as a vital part of the energy mix in the emirate. This is because aside from being an electricity generation center, the solar park also serves as an innovation and research facility.
It is made up of an Innovation Centre and a Research & Development Centre, which offers testing of PV and CSP technology schemes. This centre aims at achieving energy sustainability, reducing dependence on single sources of energy, and spawning a culture of entrepreneurship.
Experts are concerned, but anxious about the future of this photovoltaic UFO
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum solar Park is a part of Dubai clean energy strategy 2050 under which the Emirate of Dubai strives to produce 75% of energy through clean resources by the year 2050. The further development of the park has been planned, and we have had access to that.
You should know that there are phases of the development of the park likely to involve additional facilities that can enhance the park’s capacity and performance. The success of the project has already begun being rewarded demonstrably as the project has been the winner of many awards such as the Best Sustainable Project of the Year.
This project reminds us of one you have seen with us on previous occasions, known as The Line and located in neighboring Saudi Arabia. However, this photovoltaic energy UFO has shattered all forecasts with its 950 MW of energy, which would be enough to supply at least 100,000 homes. Can you imagine doing the same in the deserts of Arizona or Texas?
