logo
Comoros inaugurates 6.3MW solar plant funded by ADFD

Comoros inaugurates 6.3MW solar plant funded by ADFD

Trade Arabia24-04-2025

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) marked the inauguration of a 6.3-megawatt solar power plant in the Comoros, funded with AED25.7 million ($7 million).
The project enhances the nation's energy infrastructure, helping meet growing energy demands and stimulate economic growth, while highlighting the Fund's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable advancement, reported WAM.
Aligned with the UAE's global development strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to expanding clean energy access and building long-term resilience in partner nations.
The solar plant will provide a reliable, renewable energy source for Moroni, the capital, and nearby regions, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, cutting carbon emissions, and improving the quality of life for residents.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, in the presence of Jumaa Rashed Al Remeithi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Union of the Comoros, alongside government representatives from both nations.
Praised the partnership, Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros, said: 'The UAE has a remarkable record in driving renewable energy advancements and climate action. ADFD's role in supporting sustainable energy projects is commendable, reinforcing global sustainability principles and leveraging innovative technologies to expand access to clean energy.'
He highlighted the project's transformative impact adding: 'Our collaboration with ADFD has been instrumental in achieving our development goals and our shared commitment to protecting our planet. This solar plant represents more than just an energy project; it is a milestone in our transitional journey to clean energy, strengthening economic stability and generating new job opportunities.'
For his part, Al Remeithi said: 'This significant project reflects the close ties between the UAE and the Union of the Comoros, demonstrating the UAE's unwavering commitment to promote sustainable development and enhance strategic partnerships across vital sectors, particularly renewable energy. The initiative is regarded as a prominent step toward achieving environmental stability, which highlights the UAE's dedication to supporting clean energy projects, showcasing the country's keenness to strengthen global efforts to address climate change.'
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said: 'This solar plant marks a milestone in advancing economic and social development in the Comoros. By investing in renewable energy, we contribute to long-term sustainability and environmental responsibility. We remain committed to working closely with our partners to ensure this project delivers lasting benefits for present and future generations.'
He emphasised ADFD's focus on clean energy as a driver of stability, adding that the support for the energy sector is a priority for ADFD, given its critical role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. 'Our investment in clean energy projects reflects our commitment to drive economic stability and a sustainable future,' he remarked.
The solar plant will integrate with the Comoros' national grid via medium-voltage lines, ensuring stable electricity access for the region. This project underscores the Fund's longstanding partnership with the Comoros, which has included AED 439.4 million ($ 119.6 million) in concessional loans and grants since 1979 to fund critical sectors such as energy, health, education, and transport.
By advancing clean energy infrastructure, the initiative directly supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), while fulfilling ADFD's mandate to drive sustainable development globally.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

BDB Highlights the Impact of Its Farmers Market Initiative in Boosting Local Agriculture and Food Security
BDB Highlights the Impact of Its Farmers Market Initiative in Boosting Local Agriculture and Food Security

Biz Bahrain

time27-05-2025

  • Biz Bahrain

BDB Highlights the Impact of Its Farmers Market Initiative in Boosting Local Agriculture and Food Security

Bahrain Development Bank (BDB), the Kingdom's leading bank dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has released its latest insights on the impact of its Farmers Market initiative in Hoorat A'ali — a key platform driving local agriculture, empowering Bahraini farmers and families, and enhancing food security. This key initiative plays an essential role in providing direct, year-round access to a diverse selection of fresh, locally produced goods, offering farmers a valuable platform to grow their businesses and increase sales. The Farmers Market initiative reflects BDB's active role in supporting national efforts to boost food security, while also advancing several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — including: No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Partnerships for the Goals. The Farmers Market is considered one of the Kingdom's most successful local initiatives, attracting over 200,000 visitors annually. It features more than 50 kiosks, cafes, and restaurants serving freshly prepared local dishes. The market also supports 21 local farmers, 18 Bahraini productive families, and three commercial ventures, all of which contribute to increased domestic production and stimulate the national economy. Given that Bahrain currently imports around 95% of its food requirements, the Farmers Market plays a crucial role in reducing this dependency by nurturing the local agricultural sector. It also encourages the growth of SMEs, in line with the Kingdom's broader economic vision to achieve sustainable development in agriculture.

AW Rostamani unit to install rooftop solar capacity
AW Rostamani unit to install rooftop solar capacity

Trade Arabia

time05-05-2025

  • Trade Arabia

AW Rostamani unit to install rooftop solar capacity

AW Rostamani (AWR) Group, one of the UAE's leading family business groups, and Positive Zero, a decentralised decarbonisation infrastructure business, have signed an agreement to install 460 kWp (kilowatt peak) of rooftop solar capacity at the production facility of Sineo Packaging Manufacturing, a sustainable packaging manufacturer under AWR Group's diversified portfolio. This agreement marks AWR Group's sixth agreement with Positive Zero (and its subsidiaries), bringing the total solar capacity to 2.7 MWp across six facilities. The solar project at Sineo Packaging Manufacturing builds upon AWR Group's continued commitment to renewable energy, including a 2023 partnership with Positive Zero's Distributed Generation arm (SirajPower) to deploy solar solutions across five principal locations in Dubai: • AW Rostamani Central Warehouse, Dubai Internet City (DIC), in operation • Arabian Automobiles, Nissan Showroom, in operation • Arabian Automobiles, Service Center, SZR, in operation • Arabian Automobiles, Nissan Service Center, Deira, in operation • AWR Parts Distribution Centre in DIC, under construction since December 2024 Under operations, the six solar-powered facilities will cut an average of 3,000 metric tons of carbon emissions every year, equivalent to the carbon sequestered by planting 50,000 trees, powering the entire energy needs of 400 homes annually. The signing ceremony was held at the manufacturing facility of Sineo Packaging located in Dubai Industrial City and was attended by Wayne Beifus, Chief Financial Officer, AWR Group, Antoine Moussali, CEO, Sineo Packaging Manufacturing, David Auriau, Group CEO, Positive Zero, and Laurent Longuet, CEO, SirajPower, a Positive Zero company, among other company executives. Wayne Beifus, Chief Financial Officer, AWR Group, said: 'AWR Group is committed to actively incorporating sustainability initiatives across various verticals, ensuring a positive social, environmental, and economic impact. This solar installation at Sineo Packaging is an extension of the Group's ongoing sustainability efforts and aligns with our organisation-wide ESG framework, which supports the Net Zero aspirations of the UAE and helps meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We seek to make a meaningful and enduring impact — in business, on people, and on the world at large.' David Auriau, Chief Executive Officer of Positive Zero, stated: "Our mission extends beyond providing solar solutions; it is about helping our clients drive transformative change towards environmental responsibility through a fast, simple and profitable sustainability roadmap. We are proud to partner with AW Rostamani Group on this project, building on our long-standing relationship which includes six successful projects to date. This installation will provide Sineo Packaging with clean energy and contribute to a more decarbonized future for the UAE." Sineo Packaging Manufacturing is the region's only sustainable packaging manufacturer. The 460 kWp solar capacity will enable Sineo Packaging Manufacturing to generate approximately 7.7 Gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy across a 10-year lease period - a testimony to the company's commitment to sustainable operations. Antoine Moussali, CEO, Sineo Packaging Manufacturing, added: 'We have taken our commitment to sustainability one step further - not only do we create sustainable products, but we now manufacture them sustainably as well. This partnership with Positive Zero to install significant solar capacity at our Dubai Industrial City facility is a powerful testament to our commitment to eco-friendly practices. Generating our own clean energy will substantially reduce our carbon footprint and aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative and environmentally responsible packaging solutions for the food and beverage sector.' Laurent Longuet, CEO, Positive Zero's Distributed Generation arm (SirajPower), further commented: 'We are excited to be building and expanding our energy transition efforts with one of the most esteemed and renowned conglomerates in the UAE. AW Rostamani has proven its commitment and leadership time and again not only through its growth and business successes but also towards a Net Zero mandate. With supportive regulatory initiatives on the ground, Commercial & Industrial businesses today can harness solar energy and reap its short-term and long-term environmental and economic benefits.' Sineo Packaging Manufacturing produces innovative, food-safe, and eco-friendly solutions for the food and beverage sector worldwide. The company offers a wide range of recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable options with customisable branding, serving over 200 businesses globally. The manufacturing facility has 15 high-speed production lines with an annual production capacity of 400 million units.

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry
World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry

Trade Arabia

time04-05-2025

  • Trade Arabia

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards opens for entry

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards has opened entries for its 2025 programme. Individuals and organisations across the globe accelerating change and making an impactful contribution to sustainable travel and tourism are invited to enter free of charge. 30 categories covering all sectors of sustainable travel and tourism have been selected by the Awards Advisory Board of experts to reflect the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and net positive framework of People, Planet, Place, Prosperity and Partnerships. This year's programme sees the introduction of nine new categories to reflect the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism. These include peace impact, food and nutrition, indigenous community tourism, and guest experience. Using a simple set of criteria, entries must be submitted by June 30. These will then be analysed and vetted by students of sustainable business from the Nova School of Business and Economics, Lisbon, with the final shortlist approved by the Awards Advisory Board. Global voting – open to travel and tourism professionals – will run from July 14 to August 30. The winners will be announced at the 2nd annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Gala Ceremony, taking place at Terra, Expo City Dubai, on October 29, with the leaders in sustainable travel in attendance. Key Dates: Call for Entries: 2 May – June 30 Global Voting: 14 July – August 30 Gala Ceremony, Terra, Expo City Dubai: October 29 Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President, World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, says: 'On behalf of the Awards, I am delighted to open submissions for our 2nd annual programme. We welcome entries from across the sustainable travel and hospitality sector. Our goal is to recognise and tell the stories of those accelerating change and making a sustainable impact on our planet for the next generation.' The Awards is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent over 66,000 hotels, 8 million rooms globally, 300 brands, and over 100 supply chain and strategic partners. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, says: 'I'm thrilled to see the categories for the 2025 World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards now live, it marks the exciting beginning of a journey to recognise those making a real difference across our industry. The hosting of this year's awards at Terra, Expo City Dubai, is a powerful symbol of our collective ambition to build a Net Positive future for the industry. I look forward to celebrating the visionaries and innovators who are leading the way towards a more sustainable world.' -TradeArabia News Service

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store