Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading real estate development, has signed an agreement with Emerge, a joint venture between the UAE’s Masdar and France’s EDF, to deploy on-site solar energy systems at the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi theme park currently under construction on Yas Island.
The project, which will have a capacity of 8.2 megawatts (MW), will see rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed at the marine-life mega development on Yas Island, including the main building.
As per the deal, Emerge will provide a full turnkey solution, including design, procurement, and construction, as well as operation and maintenance services.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaab, CEO of Miral, said: “Our agreement with Emerge marks an important step in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s sustainability strategy. The deployment of new solar energy systems is consistent with our progress towards further leveraging the capacity of sustainable sources across our developments.”
“This partnership, a significant environmental milestone, underscores our commitment to sustainability as we strengthen Yas Island’s position as a global destination within the Emirates’ tourism ecosystem,” he stated.
Meanhwile, Marc Swanson, CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment said: “As an organisation we are committed to creating a more sustainable future and encourage all initiatives that help advance that cause. This agreement reflects SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s alignment with our efforts to adopt efficient and innovative solutions across our parks.”
“Working with our partners on the first SeaWorld marine-life theme park outside of the United States, we are excited to share and exchange our experiences with the region and come together for a better environment,” he added.
Masdar supports Miral’s ongoing environemntal efforts
In addition to that, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar said: “This project demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to finding innovative ways of achieving its clean energy objectives and increasing renewable energy usage.”
“By leveraging the local and international experience of Masdar and EDF – both leading companies in the energy sector – the Emerge joint venture is ideally equipped to support Miral’s ongoing environmental efforts, and in turn help to drive sustainable development within the regional leisure and tourism sector,” Al Ramahi added.
Laurent Clement, CEO of EDF Middle East said: “The private sector is playing a major role in supporting the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, and in achieving an energy mix that combines renewable and clean energy sources to balance economic requirements and environmental goals.”
“We are convinced that our successful partnership with Masdar, through the Emerge joint venture and Miral can be a catalyst for other actors in the private sector to take advantage of solar energy and join our journey to a cleaner UAE,” he added.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi represents the first new SeaWorld marine-life park in more than 30 years and the first outside the US.
The marine life theme park will offer unique immersive experiences that engage visitors from the UAE and around the world, broadening their knowledge and appreciation of marine life, Masdar added.
