Dubai: DEWA’s 700MW concentrated solar power project has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the highest capacity single-operator CSP plant worldwide, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in hybrid solar technology and supporting the UAE’s net-zero emissions target for 2050.
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has marked a significant achievement with the official recognition by Guinness World Records of its concentrated solar power (CSP) project as the highest capacity single-operator CSP plant globally, holding an impressive capacity of 700 megawatts (MW). This accolade, presented to HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, DEWA’s Managing Director and CEO, during a ceremony, underscores Dubai’s evolving landscape as a powerhouse for renewable energy.
Al Tayer emphasised that this achievement aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aiming to position Dubai at the forefront of clean energy initiatives. His remarks reaffirmed a commitment to innovation and sustainability, critical elements in a region increasingly focused on diversifying energy sources and reducing carbon footprints. The strategic significance of the CSP project is particularly notable, as it contributes to the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, an imperative echoed in Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
The CSP initiative is part of the expansive fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which showcases an integration of hybrid technologies. This phase not only includes the 600MW CSP parabolic basin complex and a 100MW central solar tower, but also incorporates 250MW from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Such ingenuity demonstrates a multifaceted approach to harnessing solar energy, intended to maximise efficiency and support energy demands sustainably.
Previously, this solar park phase had already made headlines by securing two other Guinness World Records: one for the tallest concentrated solar power tower, standing at 263.126 metres, and another for the largest thermal energy storage capacity, efficiently storing up to 5,907 megawatt-hours using molten salt technology. These records highlight the technical advancements made in solar energy and reinforce Dubai’s role as a leader in the global renewable sector.
As the industry pivots towards sustainability, the recognition of DEWA’s CSP plant emerges as a significant testament to the potential of renewable energy technologies in addressing future energy challenges while minimising environmental harm. DEWA’s aggressive pursuit of such projects not only bolsters energy independence but also positions the UAE within the competitive global framework of clean energy innovation.
Concrete evidence of DEWA’s commitment to this cause is reflected in its history of landmark achievements and investments. The 700MW CSP project, awarded to a consortium including Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power and China’s Shanghai Electric, was designated with a record bid in 2017, further confirming its alignment with international standards of efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The transition towards a sustainable energy future is underscored not only by infrastructure but by operational milestones as well. In a recent achievement, DEWA demonstrated the reliability of its CSP technology by securing a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous operation of a CSP plant, operating for an impressive 39 days, 15 hours, and 32 minutes. Such achievements reinforce Dubai’s standing as a hub for cutting-edge clean energy initiatives, ensuring continuous generation and availability of electricity.
In conclusion, DEWA’s latest accolades reflect a broader commitment within the UAE to pioneer energy solutions that fulfil both economic and environmental objectives. As Dubai continues to lead in solar energy development, the integration of innovative technologies heralds a new era in sustainable energy consumption, securing a cleaner legacy for future generations.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://solarquarter.com/2025/05/20/dewas-700mw-csp-project-sets-new-guinness-world-record-strengthening-dubais-global-leadership-in-hybrid-solar-power/ – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/773726-highest-capacity-single-operator-concentrated-solar-power-plant – In April 2024, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) achieved a Guinness World Record for the highest capacity single-operator concentrated solar power (CSP) plant, with a capacity of 700 MW. This milestone underscores DEWA’s commitment to sustainable energy and supports Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The project demonstrates the potential of solar power to meet future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.
- https://www.acwapower.com/en/projects/noor-energy-1/ – Noor Energy 1 is a 950 MW hybrid project located in Dubai, UAE, and is the largest single-site Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant globally. The project integrates three hybrid technologies: 600 MW from a CSP parabolic basin complex, 100 MW from a CSP central tower, and 250 MW from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. It features the tallest CSP central tower at 263.126 meters and the largest thermal energy storage capacity at 5,907 MWh, utilizing molten salt-based CSP technology.
- https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/653396-largest-thermal-energy-storage-plant – In June 2023, DEWA and Noor Energy 1 set a Guinness World Record for the largest thermal energy storage plant, with a capacity of 5,907 MWh. This achievement highlights the project’s ability to provide continuous electricity generation, supporting Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The use of molten salt-based CSP technology enables energy availability around the clock, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global center for clean energy and a green economy.
- https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/773727-longest-continuous-concentrated-solar-power-plant-operation – In June 2024, DEWA achieved a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous operation of a concentrated solar power (CSP) plant, running for 39 days, 15 hours, and 32 minutes. This milestone demonstrates the reliability and efficiency of CSP technology in providing sustainable energy solutions. The achievement supports Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, showcasing the potential of renewable energy to meet future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.
- https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170916005007/en/DEWA-Awards-AED14.2-Billion-Largest-CSP-Project-in-the-World-With-a-Record-Bid-of-USD-7.3-Cents-Per-kWh-to-Generate-700MW – In September 2017, DEWA awarded a contract for the 700 MW fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, marking the largest single-site Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) project globally. The project was awarded to a consortium comprising Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power and China’s Shanghai Electric, with a record bid of USD 7.3 cents per kilowatt-hour. The project features the world’s tallest solar tower, measuring 260 meters, and utilizes the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model.
- https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231207309506/en/Largest-CSP-project-in-the-world-inaugurated-in-Dubai – In December 2023, the largest Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) project in the world was inaugurated in Dubai. The 950 MW project integrates three hybrid technologies: 600 MW from a CSP parabolic basin complex, 100 MW from a CSP central tower, and 250 MW from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Built at an investment of AED 15.78 billion, the project features the tallest solar tower in the world at 263.126 meters and the largest thermal energy storage capacity with 5,907 MWh, according to Guinness World Records.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative refers to a recent Guinness World Record recognition dated May 2025, with no signs of outdated information or references to individuals who have changed roles or passed away. The content aligns with current developments in Dubai’s renewable energy initiatives and includes fresh data points like the 39-day continuous operation record. The presence of official details and recent citations supports high freshness, although some historical context dating back to 2017 is included for background.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
Direct quotes from HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer are attributed within the narrative but do not appear to be sourced from an earlier dated publication available online. The earliest and original reference to these remarks seems to be this reporting occasion, suggesting authenticity. The quotes support ongoing strategic commitments and are consistent with public statements by DEWA leadership, enhancing credibility despite lack of explicit prior online sources.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from SolarQuarter, a specialised renewable energy platform which is moderately reputable for industry news but less authoritative than globally recognised outlets like Reuters or BBC. The involvement of Guinness World Records and known project partners (ACWA Power, Shanghai Electric) bolsters trustworthiness. However, SolarQuarter’s narrower profile means a moderate reliability score reflecting reasonable but not top-tier editorial oversight.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims regarding the CSP project’s capacity, Guinness World Records recognitions, and technological details align well with documented facts about Dubai’s solar initiatives. The technical specifics, such as the integration of hybrid technologies and molten salt thermal storage, are consistent with known advancements in CSP plants. The described achievements fall within expected capabilities, and no extraordinary or unverifiable claims are made, supporting high plausibility.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative presents current and verifiable information on DEWA’s 700MW CSP project and its Guinness World Records recognitions. Quotes appear original and credible, and technical claims are plausible within the renewable energy sector. While the originating platform is industry-focused and moderately reputable, the inclusion of official data and cross-references to Guinness World Records strengthens the reliability of the information. No indications of outdated or recycled news are detected.
