Overview
Shuweihat 1 is undergoing a major transformation from a legacy power‑and‑water cogeneration facility into a 1.1 GW natural gas‑fired open‑cycle power plant, designed to deliver flexible reserve capacity to Abu Dhabi’s electricity system. Originally commissioned in 2005, the plant has played a central role in the UAE’s energy infrastructure for nearly two decades.
Under a new 15‑year Power Purchase Agreement with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), Shuweihat 1 is being reconfigured to operate as a power‑only asset, supporting grid stability as renewable energy capacity—particularly large‑scale solar—continues to expand across the UAE. The project repurposes existing infrastructure to provide fast‑response generation, ensuring security of supply during periods of peak demand and renewable intermittency.
Located in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, Shuweihat 1’s reconfiguration reflects the UAE’s evolving energy system, where flexible gas‑fired generation complements renewable power and enables the decoupling of water and electricity production.
