Announcements
Africa Finance Corporation and SkyPower Global to start work for DR Congo’s energy needs
Published
7 months agoon
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Renewable energy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to get a significant boost as Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and SkyPower Global have come decided to come together for the first phase of the latter’s Green Giant project in the country.
This 200MW Phase 1 is a crucial step in realising the landmark 1,000MW Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed between SkyPower and the DRC’s state-owned utility, Société Nationale d’Electricité (SNEL).
The partnership creates a formidable force in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions for the continent in the fight against climate change. The venture will leverage SkyPower’s unparallelled global experience in developing large-scale solar projects and AFC’s proven track record of successfully de-risking and distributing capital for well-structured power and other infrastructure projects across Africa.
Coming in the wake of COP28, this agreement underscores both organisations’ dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly emphasising the critical role of partnerships in accelerating renewable energy adoption and addressing the escalating climate crisis.
The DRC Green Giant project, heralded by the signing of the initial PPA with SNEL, marked a historic commitment from the DRC government to enhance electrification rates through renewable energy partnerships. President Félix Tshisekedi’s strategic vision targets a significant boost to the nation’s clean energy output, contributing to a projected US$2.3 billion stimulus to the DRC’s GDP and the creation of approximately 30,000 job years.
The Joint Development Agreement is set to catalyse the construction of the first 200MW phase of the project, with all necessary approvals secured and land allocation completed, ensuring a swift transition to development stage and the commencement of construction by 2025.
“Partnering with SkyPower, an institution known for their decades of global expertise in large-scale solar projects, is well aligned with our mission to advance energy access on the continent through renewable energy,” said Amadou Wadda, Senior Director of Project Development and Technical Solutions at AFC, the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to contribute significantly to rapid industrialisation, local job creation, sustainable economic growth and a pragmatic transition to net zero in DRC and Africa as a whole.
Kerry Adler, President & Chief Executive Officer of SkyPower, highlighted AFC’s leadership role and its commitment to fast-tracking the deployment of essential energy projects as crucial to leveraging solar energy to spur economic development, create job opportunities, and tackle climate change effectively. “Partnering with AFC exemplifies a concerted effort toward realizing the ambitious goals set by forward-looking countries such as the DRC, aiming for a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone,” Adler noted. “This agreement underlines AFC’s pivotal contribution to promoting renewable energy solutions and both AFC and SkyPower’s unwavering commitment and dedication to ensuring a greener, more resilient world.”
SkyPower Global stands at the forefront of utility-scale solar energy project development and project ownership around the world, boasting over 20 years of operational history. The company is supported by a highly experienced team, collectively holding more than 1600 years of expertise in power, empowerment, and significant infrastructure initiatives. SkyPower has diligently developed an extensive pipeline of projects exceeding 10GW, which are at diverse stages of development, construction, and operation. This broad pipeline demonstrates SkyPower’s strong commitment to and expertise in the renewable energy sector, with projects set for implementation in strategic locations like the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia in the near future.
SkyPower has developed over 30 utility-scale solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) currently in operation across the globe and contracts, amounting to more than USD $60 billion in long-term renewable energy sales to leading utilities and government partners worldwide. Adding to its robust profile, SkyPower is majority-owned by CIM Group, a community-focused real estate and infrastructure owner, operator, lender, and developer. Since its inception in 1994, CIM Group has been committed to creating value in its projects and making a positive impact on the lives of people in communities across the Americas. Through its efforts, CIM Group has delivered more than $60 billion in essential real estate and infrastructure projects, furthering SkyPower’s mission to transform the energy landscape and enhance community well-being through sustainable development.
Announcements
UAE sends 90 metric tons of urgent relief supplies to Sudan
Published
5 days agoon
September 3, 2024By
SudhashreeOn the directions of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Humanitarian (DXB-H) has facilitated urgent relief supplies to Chad’s capital, Ndjamena, to support over 70,000 Sudanese people, alleviating their suffering and safeguarding lives in the region.
In a swift response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, a Boeing 747 cargo flight departed from Al Maktoum International Airport on Saturday, August 31, at 9:00 am carrying 90 metric tonnes of essential medical supplies, shelter materials, and relief items provided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). These critical resources are expected to support over 70,000 Sudanese people, alleviating their suffering and safeguarding lives in the region.
Announcements
Global Village announces opening date for Season 29
Published
5 days agoon
September 3, 2024By
SudhashreeSeason 29 of Global Village will kick off on October 16, 2024, the outdoor destination announced. The season will run until May 11, 2025. The popular destination remains closed during the summer months. This year, Global Village is expanding its offerings, featuring more cultural representations, never-before-seen entertainment, and exciting infrastructure upgrades.
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Visitors to the family-friendly destination can experience a diverse range of performances, shopping, and dining experiences from cultures around the world.
Opening more than 25 years ago, the destination set a new record of over 10 million visitors in its 28th season, the longest season to date, hosting 27 pavilions representing over 90 cultures from around the globe, as well as 3,500 shopping outlets and 250 dining options.
The destination is expecting millions of visitors from around the globe to gather for the park’s attractions during the upcoming season.
Announcements
Gaming meets speed: Ferrari launches first-ever esports arena in Abu Dhabi
Published
1 week agoon
September 1, 2024By
SudhashreeFerrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s acclaimed Ferrari-themed park, has once again redefined entertainment by launching the world’s first Ferrari-themed Esports Arena. This state-of-the-art venue is set to become the go-to destination for racing enthusiasts, Formula 1 aficionados, and thrill-seekers alike.
The newly unveiled Ferrari World Esports Arena features an impressive lineup of 20 Gran Turismo simulators, thoughtfully designed to cater to a broad audience. Fourteen simulators are dedicated to adult racers, while six are specifically designed for younger guests, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes visitors of all ages.
The arena also includes three specialised F1 simulators, offering participants the exhilarating experience of sitting in the driver’s seat of a Ferrari race car and racing on legendary F1 Grand Prix circuits, including the Yas Marina Circuit. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, the Ferrari World Esports Arena offers access to the Gran Turismo simulators as part of the theme park ticket until the end of the year. The exclusive F1 simulators are available for an additional fee, starting from Dh60 per race.