Environment and Energy Park (Enpark), one of Tecom Investments’ 10 business parks in Dubai, has announced the award of its flagship trade licence to First Solar Inc which will lead the world’s premier provider of fully integrated solar solutions and establish a Middle East operating subsidiary within the free zone.

The announcement was made during Solar Middle East 2013, the region’s first-ever gathering of solar technology suppliers that took place at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from February 17 to 19. Enpark was the event’s strategic partner.

Founded in 1999 and listed in the US, First Solar is a global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic solar systems which use advanced thin-film modules. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module collection and recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment.

The first phase of the Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, a 13 MW solar PV power plant, is currently under construction for Dewa. It is the first installation being built by First Solar in the Mena region at present.  Additionally, the company is also supplying Masdar with half of the 10 MW solar panels for carbon-neutral Masdar City.

Commenting, Saeed Bin Ghubash, director, Enpark, said: “We take real pride in welcoming a major player like First Solar as one of Enpark’s business partners.”

Ahmed Nada, vice president of business development for the Middle East, First Solar, said: “Our advanced thin film technology yields superior energy output in real-world conditions in hot-climate desert areas, low-cost volume production benefits, and superior environmental performance.”