Emerge, a joint venture between Emirati state-owned renewable energy company Masdar and the EDF Group, in collaboration with Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), has initiated the construction of a 60MWp (megawatt peak) solar power facility in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

Situated at SNOC's Sajaa gas complex, the facility has a pivotal role in the city's move towards sustainable energy.

The new installation is expected to generate sufficient clean energy to counterbalance 66,000t of CO₂ emissions each year. This is the equivalent of taking 14,600 cars off the roads annually.

The move is part of SNOC's strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2032.

The solar plant will reduce the company's reliance on fossil fuels and provide a more cost-effective energy solution.

The project aligns with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy, which aims to transition to renewable energy and establish a more sustainable future for the entire region.

SNOC CEO Hatem Al Mosa stated: “SNOC is happy to witness this significant milestone on its path to achieve net zero by 2032 across its own operations and to support the Emirate of Sharjah’s sustainability agenda and commitment to protecting the environment.

“We value this strategic cooperation with Emerge, Masdar and the EDF and we look forward to more prospects in the same path.”

Under a build-own-operate-transfer agreement, Emerge will manage the entire project lifecycle for 25 years.

This encompasses the financing, design, procurement, construction, operation and maintenance of the solar facility.

Emerge general manager Michel Abi Saab stated: “Emerge is proud to be a part of this landmark project, alongside our client SNOC. Our turnkey solutions offer businesses such as SNOC the ability to transition towards a sustainable future without upfront costs.

“This project will empower SNOC to achieve its decarbonisation goals, and also to secure a more cost-effective energy future for the Emirate as a whole. We look forward to its successful completion.”