AJ Steel Pipes, a UAE-based manufacturer, partnered with EMerge (a Masdar and EDF Group collaboration) to install a 3MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic plant at its Mussafah, Abu Dhabi production sites, advancing sustainable industrial practices.
The project aligns with the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050 and AJ Steel's carbon neutralization goals. Utilizing over 5,000 solar PV modules, the rooftop solar plant is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by more than 2,500 tons annually.
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Reducing Energy Bills
The project is expected to generate over 5,000 MWh of electricity annually, significantly reducing AJ Steel Pipes' energy costs and contributing to the UAE's clean energy goals. Michel Abi Saab, General Manager of Emerge, emphasized the project's benefits: "The facility will help AJ Steel Pipes further reduce operating costs and decrease their carbon footprint, aligning with the UAE's strategic objectives to diversify the energy mix. We are delighted to welcome AJ Steel Pipes as a client and look forward to collaborating with their team to achieve their decarbonization goals."
Supporting UAE's Energy Strategy 2050
The UAE Energy Strategy 2050 aims to increase the contribution of clean energy to 44% of the country's energy mix by 2050. The AJ Steel Pipes rooftop solar plant exemplifies the types of projects needed to achieve this goal.
M Ismail, Executive Director of AJ Steel Pipes, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "It is encouraging to see this green project recognized for its contribution to achieving the goal of green steel." He further added, "Our approach of leasing assets and partnering with third-party experts aligns with our business philosophy." The UAE is actively pursuing several other large-scale solar projects to further its renewable energy goals.
The first initiative is "Shams Dubai," which allows building owners to install rooftop solar panels, utilize excess power on-site, and sell surplus electricity back to DEWA's grid. Another notable project is the 10 MW Masdar City Solar Photovoltaic Plant, completed in late 2009. This pioneering project generates approximately 17,500 MWh of clean electricity annually, marking the UAE's first grid-connected renewable energy project.
Similarly, a 7 MWp photovoltaic plant is connected to the Khazan Data Center in Abu Dhabi. By 2025, 45% of Abu Dhabi's data centers are expected to be powered by photovoltaic plants, while the remaining 55% will continue to rely on gas combustion plants.
EMerge’s Role in the Solar Industry
Established in 2021, Emerge specializes in developing distributed solar, energy storage, and hybrid solutions for commercial and industrial applications. As a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group, Emerge aligns with the UAE's broader energy ambitions by promoting sustainable energy production.
The 3MW rooftop solar project by AJ Steel Pipes, in collaboration with Emerge, marks a significant milestone for the UAE, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
The project leverages cutting-edge photovoltaic technology and innovative business models to demonstrate how the energy transition can be achieved. This aligns with the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050 and supports the broader goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the fossil fuel industry.