ABB Technology is Automating a Massive Solar Energy Farm in Abu Dhabi

ABB’s cutting-edge technology is set to significantly boost the efficiency and reliability of the Al Dhafra PV2 solar plant, the largest single-site photovoltaic facility globally, located in Abu Dhabi. This project plays a crucial role in the UAE’s Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to expand the share of renewable energy and achieve net zero emissions.

The Al Dhafra PV2 plant, spanning 20 square kilometers south of Abu Dhabi City, generates 2 GW of power using four million solar modules. This capacity is sufficient to supply energy to 200,000 homes annually and will cut the city’s CO2 emissions by over 2.4 million metric tons each year—equivalent to the annual emissions from approximately 470,000 cars.

ABB’s automation and optimization solutions are integral to the plant’s operations, ensuring it operates at full capacity and maximizes efficiency. Appointed by China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC), the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for the project, ABB has implemented its Ability™ Symphony Plus distributed control system to integrate real-time data and enhance operational performance.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a significant increase in solar PV manufacturing capacity, expected to double in 2024 to nearly 1,000 GW. This growth supports global net zero goals and aligns with the UAE’s ambitious target to triple its renewable energy share by 2030.

ABB’s involvement in the Al Dhafra PV2 project underscores its commitment to expanding its automation and digital solutions in the UAE’s renewable energy sector. The company’s contributions are expected to help the UAE achieve its goal of 14 GW of clean energy by 2030.

“ABB’s collaboration has been instrumental in developing an integrated system that meets our expectations,” said Ali Albeshr, Executive Managing Director of Al Dhafra Solar PV. “We are confident that ABB’s technology will sustain the plant’s operations well into the future.”

Brandon Spencer, President of ABB Energy Industries, added, “We are proud to support the UAE’s transition to a cleaner energy future through our innovative automation, electrification, and digital solutions. Projects like Al Dhafra PV2 are vital for reaching the UAE’s clean energy targets.”

In its first solar project in the UAE, ABB is also focusing on Emiratization and knowledge transfer, contributing to the region’s economic diversification and renewable energy advancements.