Shams 1 solar power project sees visit by 18 envoys

Abu Dhabi: Ambassadors of 18 countries recently visited Shams 1, a 100-megawatt solar power project located in Abu Dhabi’s Western Region.

The tour of Shams 1 was part of a broader visit to the region organised and hosted by the Ruler’s Representative Court in the Western Region.

The ambassadors –representing several Arab, Asian, European and South American countries were accompanied on the visit by Jasem Al Hosani, deputy general manager of Shams Power Company, Abdul Aziz Al Obaidli, Engineering Manager at Shams Power Company and Obaid Khalfan Al Mazroui, Director of Al Dhafra Festival’s Heritage Competitions.

“Shams 1 is a sophisticated, landmark project that showcases cutting-edge innovation in renewable energy generation,” said Al Hosani. “In fact, the power plant has become a popular visitors’ destination as its large size and scope exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to advancing renewable energy.

“The plant has been successfully generating electricity to the national grid since its inauguration,” Al Hosani added.

Operational since March 2013, Shams 1 is a major milestone in the development of renewable energy in the Middle East. The $600 million power plant delivers energy to 20,000 homes across the UAE and displaces 175,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

The tour of the Western Region also included a visit to the Dhafra Festival at Madinat Zayed where the ambassadors had an opportunity to witness a camel beauty contest, called ‘Mazayna,’ and experience the traditional souq.