For the first time, organizations across the UAE can purchase CECs specifically for wind-generated power. This development follows EWEC's strategic power purchase agreement with Masdar, a global leader in renewable energy, finalized in late 2023. The wind farms, located in Al Sila, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Delma Island, contribute a total capacity of 99 megawatts, sufficient to power approximately 22,000 homes and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 115,000 tonnes annually.
EWEC's Chief Executive Officer, Othman Al Ali, emphasized the importance of this initiative in helping businesses and organizations achieve their decarbonization goals. The wind energy CECs are expected to play a critical role in the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, providing entities with verifiable credentials to support their environmental sustainability efforts.
Masdar’s CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, highlighted the collaborative efforts between EWEC and Masdar, noting that the inclusion of wind energy in the CEC auctions will enhance the diversification of the UAE’s energy sources. This move is seen as a critical step toward ensuring a sustainable future by expanding the adoption of renewable energy across the country.
The CEC auctions are open to all businesses and organizations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint by certifying their clean energy consumption. The certificates offer a competitive advantage, as they are internationally recognized and contribute to lowering Scope 2 emissions, a key metric in corporate sustainability.
This initiative is part of EWEC's broader strategy to accelerate the UAE’s energy transition, aligning with the nation’s ambitious goals outlined in the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy's Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035. By integrating wind energy into the CEC scheme, EWEC and its partners are fostering a more sustainable and diversified energy landscape, crucial for the region's long-term environmental goals.
The next auction for these certificates is scheduled for the third quarter of 2024, with businesses encouraged to participate and contribute to the UAE’s clean energy objectives. This innovative approach underscores the UAE's leadership in the global renewable energy sector, particularly in the development and deployment of wind energy solutions.