8,000+ MW
planned capacity by 2030
From sunlight to the grid
- Panel array The array's PV modules turn sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity.
- Combiner A combiner box gathers several PV strings into one circuit.
- Inverter The inverter turns the panels' DC into the AC that the grid uses.
- Transformer A transformer steps the voltage up to the level the utility grid needs.
- Grid connection From the substation, high-voltage lines carry the plant's power into the grid. 2% DEWA's transmission and distribution losses, August 2026
Take it apart
- Panel array PV modules generate direct current (DC) electricity.
- Combiner A combiner box gathers PV strings into one circuit.
- Inverter Turns the panels' DC into the AC the grid uses.
- Transformer Steps the inverter's voltage up to what the utility grid needs.
- Grid connection From the substation, high-voltage lines carry the plant's power into the grid.
- Glass Tempered, low-iron glass is the most common front surface of a PV module.
- Encapsulant The most common encapsulant is EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate).
- Cells Far more solar cells use silicon than any other semiconductor.
- Backsheet Most modules have a thin polymer sheet, typically Tedlar, on the back.
- Frame Conventional module frames are typically made of aluminium.
- Junction box The junction box links the module to its wires.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
Clean energy capacity
- 21.5% April 2026
- 36% expected by 2030
262.44 m
Phase 4 includes a 100 MW molten-salt solar power tower. The park's page calls it the world's tallest.
2.3 million
panels in phase 2, on 4.5 square kilometres
Over 6.5 million
tons of carbon emissions saved a year once the park is complete
Capacity by phase
Show the numbers
| Phase | Capacity (MW) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 13 | Operational on 22 October 2013 |
| Phase 2 | 200 | Inaugurated on 20 March 2017 |
| Phase 3 | 800 | Fully operational in 2020 |
| Phase 4 | 950 | Status not stated in our sources |
| Phase 5 | 900 | Fully operational in June 2023 |
| Phase 6 | 1,800 | Planned in stages between 2024 and 2026 (park page, September 2025) |
| Phase 7 | 2,000 | Planned (DEWA, 4 November 2025) |
AI and the solar plant
In May 2026 DEWA said AI, short for artificial intelligence, is pivotal to making the park's projects more efficient.
Forecasting
Under 10%
DEWA says its forecasting system cuts errors in the forecast of the park's output to under 10%. July 2021.
IRENA, October 2025: AI-enhanced forecasting and automation can minimise renewable energy curtailments.
Dust
Soiling is dirt building up on panels, which blocks sunlight.
Up to 13%
4%
Infrared checks
An infrared thermometer can find the points where temperatures are higher.
- Sunlight over 600 W/m²
- Wind under 28 km/h
Watching the equipment
IEA, 2026: AI monitors grids and transformers to reduce unexpected outages.
Photos
