Solar Power 24/7: UAE Project Cracks Intermittency

A pioneering project outside Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is set to revolutionize solar energy by ensuring a 24/7 power supply. Developed by Masdar, the Round-The-Clock (RTC) project combines extensive solar arrays with significant battery capacity to store energy generated during daylight hours.

This innovation addresses solar power's inherent intermittency, providing a stable 1 GW of electricity consistently. Dr. Ibraheem Almansouri of Masdar highlighted that falling battery storage costs, coupled with advancements in battery life and efficiency, have made the RTC project economically viable. The project is designed to withstand rare adverse weather conditions.

Scheduled for operation next year, the RTC project will serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide. Masdar has already signed agreements to explore projects in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Globally, battery storage is increasingly vital for the energy transition, with Chile also scaling up its storage capacity.

Chile currently has 9 GW of storage in operation or development, with an additional 27 GW planned, to manage energy flow across its long territory. Globally, approximately 180 GWh of battery storage capacity was added in 2024, nearly doubling the previous year's figure. Falling costs make battery storage an attractive option for off-grid electricity users, particularly in regions like sub-Saharan Africa.

Energy think-tank Ember estimates battery storage costs have decreased by 20% annually over the past decade, with installations growing 80% per year. "Dispatchable solar" can now be delivered for as low as $76 per megawatt hour in many markets. This technology allows countries to significantly increase their renewable energy share, with Mexico and sunny cities like Las Vegas exploring its potential for high solar penetration.