Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced a significant collaboration on renewable energy, unveiling plans for three large-scale solar and wind projects in Azerbaijan with a combined capacity of 1 GW. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Baku Energy Forum.
Project Locations and Capacity:
- A 445 MW solar plant in Bilasuvar
- A 315 MW solar plant in Neftchala
- A 240 MW wind farm in Absheron-Garadagh
Environmental Impact:
- These projects are expected to produce around 2.3 billion kWh of electricity annually.
- They will save 496 million cubic meters of natural gas per year.
- They will prevent more than 943,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
Statements from Leaders:
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev emphasized the significance of the projects, stating they demonstrate Azerbaijan’s commitment to a green agenda and its attractiveness for renewable energy investments.
UAE Minister Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, who also serves as Chairman of Masdar and President of COP28, highlighted the importance of the partnership in supporting Azerbaijan’s energy diversification, creating new industries and jobs, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Broader Context:
COP29 Preparation: The announcement comes as Azerbaijan gears up to host COP29 in Baku this November, taking over from the UAE. This event will focus on accelerating global renewable energy initiatives.
Global Renewable Energy Goals: Al Jaber stressed the global goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, emphasizing the need for more partnerships to ensure a fair and effective energy transition that aligns with climate goals.
Additional Highlights:
- President Aliyev noted the importance of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, aligning with Azerbaijan’s role as the host of COP29 and its commitment to leading the green transition.
- The forum also featured discussions on clean energy solutions, advancements in artificial intelligence, and economic growth in developing countries to support sustainable development. Over 300 companies from 37 countries participated, marking it as a key event in the global energy sector calendar.
These projects mark a significant step towards a sustainable future, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in achieving renewable energy goals and combating climate change.
