The newly acquired portfolio includes 42 operational solar power plants distributed throughout Central and Southern Taiwan. These facilities possess a combined nameplate capacity of 187MW and are projected to produce approximately 270 million kWh of clean electricity annually. This output is estimated to support the energy needs of roughly 80,000 Taiwanese households, with the assets maintaining a remaining operational lifespan exceeding 15 years. By integrating these facilities, J&V Energy intends to solidify its standing as a prominent independent power producer.

This solar acquisition serves to enhance the supply capabilities of GREENET, the group’s green electricity retail subsidiary. According to Jerome Tan, Group Chief Investment Officer of J&V Energy, the addition of these assets aligns with a broader strategy to develop a high-quality portfolio that features stable, long-dated, and fully contracted cashflows. The company views this as an opportunity to leverage its internal expertise in asset management, operations, and offtake solutions to drive further value. Furthermore, Kai Tan, Deputy CEO of J&V Energy, noted that the initiative directly addresses the increasing demand from local corporations particularly those within the semiconductor, electronics, and ICT sectors for reliable, large-scale green electricity to meet net-zero commitments. Following the finalization of the deal in 2026, the plants will be fully incorporated into the firm’s existing electricity retail and management platforms.

The CFA was signed by Ahmed Ali Alshamsi and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, both of whom underscored the importance of strengthened cooperation to improve project efficiency particularly in the development of solar power plants and battery energy storage systems.

A Partnership Built on Proven Collaboration

The UAE renewable energy agreement between EWEC and Masdar is not built from scratch. Both organisations share a strong history of working together on some of the region’s most significant solar power initiatives, including the Al Dhafra, Al Ajban, and Khazna solar projects. These past efforts have laid a solid foundation for what is now expected to be a broader and more structured collaboration under the new framework.

By combining EWEC’s deep expertise in energy procurement with Masdar’s globally recognised capabilities in renewable energy development, the partnership is positioned to deliver faster and more efficient project outcomes.

Targeting 60 Percent Clean Energy by 2035

One of the central objectives of the Collaboration Framework Agreement is to support Abu Dhabi in achieving 60 percent of its total energy demand from renewable and clean sources by 2035. To reach this goal, EWEC has outlined plans to expand its solar power capacity to more than 30 gigawatts.

In parallel, a minimum of 8 gigawatts of battery energy storage will be integrated into the grid. This large-scale storage deployment is intended to ensure the stability and reliability of power supply as the share of intermittent clean energy sources continues to rise.

These efforts are firmly aligned with the UAE’s long-term national commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Supporting the Local Economy and Emirati Workforce

Beyond energy production targets, the CFA also places considerable emphasis on economic and social outcomes. The agreement includes specific measures to increase In-Country Value by promoting the use of local suppliers and service providers within project supply chains.

Additionally, the partnership seeks to create meaningful employment and skills development opportunities for Emirati professionals in the clean energy sector, contributing to a more locally empowered energy workforce.

Toward Emission-Free Water Production

The collaboration extends beyond electricity generation. The agreement is also expected to contribute to cleaner water production by reducing dependence on fossil fuels in desalination processes. This is in alignment with the UAE’s broader goal of achieving nearly emission-free water production by 2030 a target that ties energy and water sustainability together within a unified national vision.

Strengthening Energy Security Through Innovation

Officials from both EWEC and Masdar stated that the agreement will enhance the country’s energy security while encouraging innovation across the sector. The structured framework is expected to reduce timelines and improve the execution quality of future UAE renewable energy projects, as both parties leverage their combined strengths.

The Collaboration Framework Agreement represents a concrete step in building a more sustainable, reliable, and resilient energy system capable of supporting the UAE’s long-term growth and development ambitions.

The company stated that its hybrid interdigitated-back-contact (HIBC) solar cell architecture enabled the breakthrough, combining multiple advanced design elements. These include passivated tunneling contacts, dielectric passivation layers, and both n-type and p-type contacts integrated within the same structure. Longi further noted that HIBC-based modules have already demonstrated an efficiency of 26.4%, a figure certified by the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). According to the company, “These breakthroughs in technological capability have already translated into a leading edge in mass production.”

Longi’s previously published research outlines the technical configuration underpinning the achievement. The cell is constructed on a high-resistivity half-cut M10 wafer that incorporates edge passivation and optimized n-type contacts formed through a dual-temperature process. An indium tin oxide (ITO) layer is used to enhance lateral conductivity, while multilayer coatings of aluminum oxide (AlOx) and silicon nitride (SiNx) are applied to suppress surface recombination. Additional refinements include reduced phosphorus doping in the n-type polycrystalline silicon layer to limit diffusion, as well as in situ edge passivation during fabrication.

Further design enhancements involve deep-trenched metal fingers and selective ITO etching to minimize leakage between contact types. A thicker amorphous silicon layer has been introduced to improve junction coverage and sidewall encapsulation. To address contact resistivity while maintaining passivation quality, the amorphous silicon layer is crystallized using a pulsed green nanosecond laser. Longi indicated that while the technology shows potential for scaling into heterojunction solar cell manufacturing, further work is required to reduce resistive losses in the p-type contact. The company’s latest result reinforces the competitive trajectory of Solar Cell Efficiency improvements in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

In the near term, the company will manufacture fuel assemblies compatible with existing reactor designs, while simultaneously progressing the development and qualification of proprietary European fuel designs for both VVER-440 and VVER-1000 reactors. This work builds on a EUR10 million (USD10.7 million) grant awarded in June 2024 under the Euratom Research and Training Programme, supporting the SAVE (Safe and Alternative VVER European) project led by Framatome, which includes participation from 17 stakeholders.

The broader programme aligns with parallel industry efforts such as the Westinghouse Electric Company-led APIS initiative launched in July 2023. Framatome’s project is currently in its initial phase, focusing on the design of the VVER-440 fuel assembly, designated VERA-440, along with its transport container. Subsequent stages will involve fabrication and regulatory licensing, with the first fuel bundles planned for deployment at Fortum’s Loviisa nuclear power plant in Finland. Regular supply operations are expected to begin in the early 2030s.

“Today we celebrate far more than a technical accomplishment – we celebrate a shared vision and a strong teamwork across borders,” said Framatome CEO Grégoire Ponchon. “I warmly congratulate all Framatome teams and extend my sincere gratitude to ČEZ, Fortum, MVM Paks NPP, and Slovenské elektrárne for the trust they have placed in Framatome. Their confidence has been essential in bringing this ambitious project to life. This agreement reflects our shared intention to work together over the long term, fostering continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence in nuclear fuel supply.”

European utilities involved in the VVER fuel agreement emphasised its role in strengthening energy security and diversifying supply chains. Bohdan Zronek of ČEZ highlighted the importance of supplier diversification for operational stability, while Fortum’s Petra Lundström noted the benefits of collaborative European solutions. Executives from MVM Paks NPP and Slovenské elektrárne similarly underscored the strategic importance of long-term fuel security, operational predictability and reduced dependency risks across the region.

The Thor project will ultimately consist of 72 turbines, each with a capacity of up to 15MW, with installation targeted for completion by the end of 2026. Full commercial operations are expected no later than 2027. As part of its sustainability strategy, RWE plans to outfit 36 turbines with Siemens Gamesa’s GreenerTower technology, which uses steel certified to emit no more than 0.7 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per tonne. Additionally, 120 recyclable blades will be installed across 40 turbines, reinforcing efforts to reduce lifecycle emissions.

Progress on offshore construction remains aligned with timelines, with all foundations and the offshore substation already completed in 2025. Turbine installation is now advancing steadily. To support long-term operations and maintenance, a dedicated service facility has been established at the Port of Thorsminde, with expectations to generate between 50 and 60 local jobs.

The recyclable blades introduced by Siemens Gamesa incorporate a specialised resin that allows composite materials to be separated at the end of their lifecycle, enabling reuse in sectors such as automotive manufacturing and consumer goods. RWE has previously deployed this blade technology at the Kaskasi wind farm in Germany and the Sofia wind farm in the UK, indicating a broader rollout of circular solutions across its offshore portfolio. Commenting on the development, RWE Offshore Wind CEO Sven Utermöhlen said: “Offshore wind already has one of the lowest life cycle carbon footprints of power generation technologies. By using towers produced with greener steel and recyclable rotor blades, we are further reducing the carbon footprint and taking a significant step towards fully circular offshore wind.” The Thor wind farm is located approximately 22km off the west coast of Jutland near Thorsminde, with RWE holding a 51% stake and leading construction and operations, while Norges Bank Investment Management owns the remaining 49%.

The agreement centres on the 50 MW Pizarroso solar plant in Cáceres, which has been operational since 2023. Under the deal, Zelestra will integrate a 160 MWh battery energy storage system into the facility, transforming it from a standalone solar installation into a hybrid asset capable of responding to market fluctuations and supporting grid stability. Unlike greenfield hybrid projects—where solar and storage are designed together—the retrofit model introduces added engineering challenges, including system integration, inverter compatibility, and grid interconnection constraints. Despite this complexity, the model highlights a growing need to enhance the performance of existing renewable assets rather than relying solely on new capacity additions.

Spain’s rapid solar expansion has intensified midday oversupply risks, leading to price cannibalisation and curtailment in certain regions. By incorporating storage, operators can shift energy output to periods of higher demand, improving revenue predictability while reducing strain on the grid during peak production hours. The 160 MWh system suggests a configuration focused on intra-day balancing, aligning with current opportunities in energy arbitrage and ancillary services, although long-term value will depend on how electricity markets evolve to reward flexibility.

EDP’s role as the offtaker reflects a broader shift in power purchase agreement structures, moving away from fixed-volume contracts toward more dynamic arrangements that incorporate storage-enabled optimisation. By embedding storage within the agreement, EDP gains greater control over supply-demand alignment, reducing exposure to negative pricing and improving portfolio balancing. The companies previously collaborated on a project in Trujillo, Extremadura, combining 170 MW of solar with 400 MWh of storage. The progression toward retrofit applications signals a broader expansion of hybridisation strategies, reinforcing the relevance of the Solar Storage Retrofit model across different asset types and development stages.

BKV is evaluating both greenfield development and acquisitions of gas-fired power assets, with the objective of adding roughly 1GW of capacity. The company’s focus remains firmly on Texas, where it already operates two gas-fired facilities via its publicly listed US arm. These assets, secured in 2021 and 2023, each deliver approximately 1.5GW and serve the state’s power market. As demand from AI-driven and cloud-based data centres intensifies, Banpu sees tightening supply conditions as a catalyst for new investments.

“The US power business will be a core earnings driver, supported by sustained demand from data centres and AI,” said Vongkusolkit in an interview. “Valuations have increased, but the long-term growth outlook continues to justify investment.” The Banpu US expansion plan reflects a broader strategic pivot, as the company gradually reduces its reliance on coal and builds a more diversified energy mix anchored in gas and renewables.

While this transition is underway, Banpu continues to benefit from external market dynamics. Supply disruptions in the Middle East have supported coal demand, prompting the company to increase output across its mining operations in China, Indonesia and other regions. Alongside its US ambitions, Banpu maintains a global power portfolio spanning China, Laos, Vietnam and Australia, with a combined generating capacity of 3GW.

The new entity is designed to streamline the development, construction, ownership and operation of solar, wind, and battery storage assets. By pooling capital resources and technical expertise, the JV deal partners intend to accelerate deployment and strengthen their competitive position across high-growth markets. Upon completion, the platform will act as the exclusive vehicle for both companies’ onshore renewable energy activities in the region. The venture will include 3GW of operational assets alongside an additional 6GW of projects currently in advanced stages, with commissioning targeted by 2030.

Commenting on the agreement, Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi said: “This joint venture reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a global center for energy leadership, combining the expertise of Masdar and TotalEnergies to drive renewable energy deployment across Asia. For Masdar, this JV strengthens and diversifies our portfolio, unlocking new opportunities in attractive, high-growth markets, while bringing in a like-minded partner to accelerate growth and deliver additional value in our existing markets.” Both partners will contribute assets of comparable value to the venture, ensuring balance in ownership and operational input.

The headquarters of the joint venture will be located within Abu Dhabi Global Market, with a workforce of approximately 200 employees drawn from both organisations. The agreement remains subject to regulatory clearances and customary closing conditions. Patrick Pouyanné, chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, stated: “We are delighted with the signing of this agreement with Masdar, which brings together two major renewable players to build a renewable champion in Asia. It will allow us to combine the strengths of our two companies to secure significant positions in these markets and create more value than if we were acting alone. This agreement is fully in line with the renewable energy strategy of our Integrated Power business. We are also pleased to further deepen, in this area, the long-standing relationship between the United Arab Emirates and TotalEnergies.”

The proposal follows the record-breaking AR7 auction results announced in January 2026, alongside a growing offshore wind order pipeline for Vestas within the UK market. It also builds on ongoing strategic discussions involving the UK Government, the Scottish Government and Vestas, focusing on advancing development plans and potential co-investment in the facility. However, the final investment decision remains contingent on securing sufficient UK-based orders through AR7 and AR8. Depending on the outcome of these auctions and the planning process, production at the site could begin between 2029 and 2030. Plans also include exploring opportunities to co-locate key sub-suppliers for major components.

Commenting on the development, Henrik Andersen, CEO Vestas, says, The UK government has made a big statement with AR7, showcasing how wind energy creates a positive impact on energy security, sustainability, and affordability for end consumers. We welcome the UK and Scottish governments’ dedication to fostering a competitive offshore wind market and look forward to working together to progress our co-investment plans. He further adds, Establishing a nacelle and hub assembly factory in Scotland would create hundreds of local jobs and support further jobs across the wider supply chain, delivering long-lasting economic benefits to the region.

The wind turbine facility proposal has also received backing from policymakers. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband highlights the role of the government’s clean energy agenda in driving industrial employment and strengthening national energy resilience. Meanwhile, Deputy First Minister and Economy Secretary Kate Forbes notes that the project reflects Scotland’s strong positioning as an investment destination within the offshore wind sector, supported by sustained engagement with Vestas since 2021. The planned facility would mark Vestas’ fifth European factory dedicated exclusively to offshore wind turbine nacelles and blades, reinforcing its strategy of expanding manufacturing capacity in regions with robust demand visibility.