In a pivotal move towards renewable energy adoption, the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), a leading entity in the oil and gas industry of the Emirate of Sharjah, has joined forces with Emerge, a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group. The collaboration resulted in a Solar Power Agreement, solidifying SNOC’s commitment to decarbonization and its Net-Zero target for 2032, while also contributing to the UAE’s ambitious Net-Zero by 2050 initiative.
Under the provisions of this groundbreaking agreement, SNOC and Emerge will embark on the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions at SNOC’s Sajaa Gas Complex. These solutions will not only power SNOC’s operations but also be integrated into the primary power grid. Surplus solar energy generated will be channelled to the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA), while SEWA will reciprocate by supplying the necessary power to SNOC during nighttime operations.
Anticipated to surpass SNOC’s existing power requirements, this solar project paves the way for the transition of more gas-powered units to electrical drives, leading to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Solar Power Project is set to become operational by the end of 2024, bolstering Sharjah’s green energy infrastructure.
With an expected capacity of 60 MWp, the new solar plant adheres to international standards and complies with SEWA’s technical regulations, ensuring the security and reliability of electrical transmission and distribution grid systems. Structured on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) basis, the contractual agreement spans 25 years.
This solar power plant not only provides Sharjah with competitively priced renewable energy but also serves as a symbiotic solution for both SNOC and SEWA. Excess solar power generation coincides with peak daylight hours, while SEWA supplements SNOC’s nighttime power needs when overall demand is lower.
H. H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, Chairman of Sharjah Petroleum Council, and President of SNOC, emphasized the significance of collaborative national efforts in achieving sustainability and environmental conservation. He considers this project a testament to the practical application of clean energy in Sharjah.
SNOC CEO Hatem Al Mosa highlighted the project’s importance in reducing the carbon footprint associated with Sajaa Plant operations. He noted that it is a major milestone towards achieving zero by 2032. In conjunction with other planned initiatives like carbon capture and storage (CCS), methane leak elimination, and operational efficiency optimization, this project is projected to cut CO2 emissions by approximately 66,000 tons annually, equivalent to removing over 14,600 cars from the road.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, expressed pride in Emerge’s inaugural project in Sharjah and its role in SNOC’s decarbonization journey. He expects the 60 MWp solar-power project to make a substantial contribution to SNOC’s sustainable goals.
Luc Koechlin, CEO of Middle East of EDF Group, expressed delight in supporting the partnership between SNOC and Emerge, emphasizing the commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly energy solutions. This collaboration represents a potent example of the strength of partnerships in advancing SNOC’s decarbonization objectives while delivering environmentally responsible energy solutions.
