Abu dhabi: Reflecting the UAE's longstanding commitment to supporting a more sustainable future and expanding the deployment of renewable energy solutions globally, the inauguration of three solar power plants in the Union of the Comoros demonstrates how the UAE is leveraging its clean energy expertise and capabilities to help strengthen global energy security. The plants were financed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), implemented by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC - Masdar, and managed by Global South Utilities (GSU).
According to Emirates News Agency, the project was inaugurated by Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, in the presence of Jumaa Rashid Alromaithi, Ambassador of the UAE to the Union of the Comoros; Ahmed Khamis Alkalbani, Representative of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development; Dr. Mohamed Alzarooni, Head of Projects at Masdar; Ali Abdulla Alshimmari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Global South Utilities; and a number of senior officials from both countries.
The project, financed by ADFD at approximately AED84.4 million, comprises three solar photovoltaic (PV) plants with a total installed capacity of approximately 20 MW: 12.86 MW on Grande Comore, 4.05 MW on Anjouan, and 3.1 MW on Moh©li. It also includes battery energy storage systems with a capacity of 16 megawatt-hours (MWh) and a power output of 8 MW across Grande Comore and Anjouan, as well as approximately 30 kilometers of 20-kilovolt (kV) medium-voltage overhead transmission lines.
Technical studies indicate that the three plants will generate approximately 33.75 GWh of clean electricity annually, equivalent to meeting the needs of around 17,500 households and avoiding approximately 20,900 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
Regarding the inauguration, Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, expressed appreciation to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for supporting development priorities and strengthening the partnership between the two countries, guided by a shared vision for sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
Jumaa Rashid Alromaithi, Ambassador of the UAE to the Union of the Comoros, remarked that the project reflects the UAE's commitment to transforming strong bilateral ties into sustainable development partnerships, delivering lasting value for communities by strengthening energy infrastructure and expanding access to reliable solar power.
Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, highlighted the project's role in strengthening energy resilience and advancing sustainable economic growth, reducing the country's reliance on imported fuel, and improving electricity reliability.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, emphasized that renewables provide the clearest route to energy security and economic resilience, supporting the nation's long-term development ambitions by leveraging solar power and advanced storage technologies.
Ali Abdulla Alshimmari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Global South Utilities, noted how international development partnerships can turn renewable energy investment into tangible community benefits, improving reliability and resilience while supporting sustainable development.
The project arrives as the Union of the Comoros faces challenges in its electricity sector, heavily relying on imported diesel, which accounted for 91% of its energy mix in 2024. The country's electricity demand reached 254 GWh, compared with actual generation of just 150 GWh, and faced approximately 3,000 power outages during the year.
The project's expected annual solar generation is equivalent to approximately 13.3% of total electricity demand and 22.5% of actual generation. It aims to improve the energy system's efficiency, diversify electricity sources, reduce exposure to fuel fluctuations, support economic activity, and build a more stable and efficient power system.