Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA), a leading global energy and water company, has significantly advanced the UAE’s energy infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships and innovative projects, TAQA plays a central role in supporting the UAE’s ambitious energy goals, including its Net Zero by 2050 initiative and Energy Strategy 2050.
Expanding the UAE’s Energy Capacity
TAQA recently signed a 24-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) to develop the Al Dhafra Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) project. This 1-gigawatt (GW) facility will enhance Abu Dhabi’s power generation capacity while integrating cutting-edge technologies. With full ownership of the project, TAQA will oversee its operation and maintenance, ensuring state-of-the-art infrastructure to support the UAE’s growing energy demands.
The Al Dhafra OCGT project aligns with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future by incorporating advanced systems that improve efficiency and reliability. It also highlights TAQA’s commitment to creating resilient power systems capable of supporting both industrial and residential needs.
Decarbonizing Offshore Operations
In another milestone, TAQA partnered with ADNOC to develop a $3.6 billion subsea transmission network. This first-of-its-kind project in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region will connect ADNOC’s offshore operations to TAQA’s onshore power grid. By replacing offshore gas-powered facilities with cleaner onshore electricity, this initiative is expected to reduce ADNOC’s carbon footprint by over 30%.
The subsea transmission system will feature high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology with a total capacity of 3.2 GW. This project supports ADNOC’s decarbonization goals, enhance energy efficiency, unlocking cost savings and enabling higher-value uses for natural gas resources.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
TAQA has also expanded its international footprint through collaborations with global energy leaders. During Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, TAQA joined Masdar and Italy’s Eni to strengthen renewable energy cooperation across the UAE, Italy, and Albania. This partnership aims to accelerate the Mediterranean region’s energy transition by deploying large-scale renewable solutions.
Jasim Husain Thabet, group CEO and managing director of TAQA, emphasized the importance of such collaborations in advancing sustainable energy and integrating cross-border infrastructure. These efforts align with the UAE Consensus on expanding global renewable capacity while ensuring energy security and affordability.
Supporting Water Infrastructure in Uzbekistan
Beyond energy, TAQA is making strides in water infrastructure development. The company recently signed an AED 2 billion agreement with Uzbekistan’s New Tashkent City Directorate to build a 65-kilometer raw water transmission pipeline and a state-of-the-art water treatment plant. This project aims to provide clean drinking water to approximately two million residents while generating up to 20 megawatts of hydropower.
The initiative reflects TAQA’s expertise in sustainable resource management and its commitment to improving communities’ quality of life worldwide. The project will operate under a 25-year Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) contract and is expected to be completed by 2035.
Enhancing Grid Resilience
On the domestic front, TAQA Transmission has achieved key milestones in bolstering the UAE’s power grid resilience. The company recently activated two of the country’s largest phase-shifting transformers in Abu Dhabi and commissioned a dynamic reactive power system. These technologies are crucial for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid while maintaining consistent power quality.
Dr. Afif Al Yafei, CEO of TAQA Transmission, highlighted that these advancements ensure the network can handle evolving energy mixes from low-carbon sources like solar and nuclear power. Such projects are pivotal as the UAE works towards its net-zero emissions target.
Driving Economic Growth Through Innovation
TAQA’s initiatives are transforming the energy landscape and driving economic growth through local investments. Over 50% of the value from its projects flows back into the UAE economy under ADNOC’s In-Country Value program. Additionally, collaborations with entities like EWEC and Masdar are expected to attract significant foreign direct investment.
By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, TAQA is cementing its position as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
Commitment to Sustainability
TAQA’s recent projects underscore its dedication to sustainability, innovation, and community development. From decarbonizing offshore operations to enhancing water security in Uzbekistan, the company is addressing critical challenges while contributing to long-term economic prosperity.
As the UAE continues its journey towards a cleaner and more resilient future, TAQA remains at the forefront of this transformation, setting benchmarks for sustainable development both locally and globally.
