During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak expressed his government’s profound gratitude for this strategic project, emphasizing its crucial role in alleviating the severe electricity shortages plaguing Aden and the surrounding regions. He noted that the solar energy station represents a significant stride towards Yemen’s renewable energy ambitions, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
The expansive project, situated east of Aden, covers a total area of 1.6 million square meters and features an impressive 211,584 solar panels. The station is equipped with 12 medium voltage stations, each with a capacity of 8.75 volt-amperes, 26 high-voltage transmission towers capable of handling 132 kilovolts over a span of 9 kilometers, and 360 solar inverters. This advanced infrastructure underscores the scale and sophistication of the initiative.
As Aden and South Yemen grapple with an electricity crisis driven by insufficient generating capacity and fuel shortages, the new solar station provides a beacon of hope. Currently, Aden’s power stations rely heavily on fossil fuels, resulting in high costs and significant environmental risks. The transition to solar energy promises to mitigate these issues, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective energy solution.
The agreement to establish the solar station was signed in December 2022 between Yemen and the UAE, with the project overcoming numerous challenges to reach completion. Notably, PLC member Abdulrahman Al-Muharrami played a key role in supervising and ensuring the project's progress.
Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak highlighted the station's potential for future expansion, with the capacity to scale up to 600 megawatts. Despite this progress, he acknowledged that Aden’s current electrical generating capacity remains less than half of the peak demand, which reaches 750 megawatts during the hot season.
The solar power plant's inauguration is a cause for celebration among the citizens of Aden, who have long endured power shortages. The project is part of a broader series of UAE-funded initiatives aimed at revitalizing Yemen’s electricity sector. The new power plant is expected to provide reliable electricity to coastal cities, hospitals, and major facilities in Aden, significantly improving the quality of life for residents.
Constructed by over 2,000 workers who collectively logged 1.3 million hours without any injuries, the solar power plant stands as a testament to the commitment and collaboration between Yemen and the UAE. Yemeni officials have extended their heartfelt thanks to the UAE for their unwavering support and dedication to promoting renewable energy and environmental sustainability in the region.
By reducing dependence on costly and polluting diesel generators, the solar power plant in Aden sets a precedent for future renewable energy projects in Yemen. This milestone paves the way for enhanced energy security and a more sustainable future, reflecting a shared vision of progress and prosperity for the people of Yemen.
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