Sharjah Launches 60 MW SANA Solar Plant to Cut Emissions and Power Industry

In a major step towards Sharjah’s clean energy goals, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Petroleum Council, officially inaugurated the SANA Solar Power Plant, the largest solar power facility in the emirate.

The inauguration ceremony marked the operational launch of the 60 MW solar plant, which is the first in Sharjah to supply renewable energy to power the emirate’s oil and gas facilities.

Uniquely designed, the plant is also capable of exporting excess power to the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) grid during the day, while drawing electricity back at night to maintain uninterrupted operations.

Following the official inauguration, Sheikh Sultan toured the facility to review its key components and operational features. During the visit, he met with Emirati engineers involved in the project, commending their efforts and dedication to advancing Sharjah’s sustainability agenda. Sheikh also presented commemorative shields to the project’s key partners in recognition of their contributions, followed by a group photograph session.

The SANA Solar Power Plant, developed by the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC) in collaboration with SEWA and Emerge, a joint venture between Masdar and France’s EDF Group, marks a significant technological achievement. The plant incorporates 13,000 flexible solar tracking poles and more than 98,000 solar panels, which adjust to follow the sun’s path, maximizing energy capture throughout the day.

Capable of generating enough clean electricity to power approximately 13,780 homes annually, the plant is expected to reduce 66,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year. This contribution supports Sharjah’s broader environmental goals as well as the UAE’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Officials briefed Sheikh on the plant’s operational framework. During daytime hours, surplus energy generated is transferred to SEWA’s grid, contributing to the emirate’s broader electricity supply. At night, SEWA provides the necessary power to SNOC’s oil and gas operations, ensuring a continuous and sustainable energy flow.

The launch of the SANA Solar Power Plant represents a critical step forward for SNOC as it accelerates efforts to decarbonize its operations. The project demonstrates SNOC’s commitment to adopting cleaner energy practices while diversifying its energy sources for long-term environmental and economic benefits.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials including Sheikh Dr. Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Head of the Ruler’s Office; Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Chairman of the Sharjah Petroleum Department and Deputy Chairman of SNOC; as well as leaders from SEWA, Emerge, and various stakeholders from the energy sector.

This landmark project underscores Sharjah’s role in supporting the UAE’s sustainability strategy while setting a benchmark for integrating renewable energy into traditionally fossil-fuel-driven sectors.