In an historic move that promises to redefine luxury tourism and environmental stewardship, Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Amaala and The Red Sea, has inked a game-changing 25-year concession agreement with EDF (Électricité de France) and Masdar. Together, they will create an innovative multi-utilities infrastructure facility set to mitigate nearly half a million tons of CO2 emissions each year.
The groundbreaking endeavor will solidify Amaala’s position as an eco-friendly tourism destination and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Amaala’s Solar-Powered Vision
Amaala, sister to The Red Sea, is on a mission to be powered entirely by solar energy, marking a pivotal shift towards sustainability in the world of luxury travel. This ambitious endeavor will not only reduce the carbon footprint but also serve as a global model for environmentally-conscious developments. At the heart of this eco-friendly facility is an optimised off-grid renewable energy system, harnessing the immense potential of photovoltaic technology.
Paired with this system is a cutting-edge battery energy storage solution, ensuring a seamless power supply 24/7. The facility further boasts a state-of-the-art desalination plant and wastewater treatment facility, both exclusively powered by renewables.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, underlines the project’s environmental significance, stating, “Sustainability is a cornerstone of Amaala, and our new partnership with EDF and Masdar will drive us towards achieving a zero-carbon footprint once fully operational.”
Powering Progress: Amaala’s Renewable Energy System
Amaala’s renewable supply system is poised to generate an impressive 410,000 MWh per annum, equivalent to powering 10,000 households for a year. The facility also includes a 700 MWh battery storage facility, guaranteeing that Amaala remains powered by renewable energy day and night. Additionally, the desalination plant, utilising cutting-edge reverse osmosis technology, will be capable of producing 37 million liters of water daily.
A Public-Private Partnership for a Greener Future
This groundbreaking contract follows the model of an independent public-private partnership (PPP), encompassing the design, construction, and operation of utilities, alongside the associated networks and infrastructure.
Béatrice Buffon, Group Executive Vice-President in charge of EDF’s International Division, emphasizes their commitment to sustainability, stating, “This project will set new standards of execution and operation for EDF and the Kingdom.”
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, echoes this sentiment, saying, “It is a remarkable, unique project which will help drive sustainable economic development to the beautiful tourism destination of Amaala.”
The utilities concession agreement between RSG, EDF, and Masdar spans an initial 25-year term, with the possibility of extension. This comprehensive partnership encompasses the financing, engineering, development, construction, operation, maintenance, and transfer of the multi-utilities infrastructure facility.
While this agreement takes Amaala one step closer to its net-zero ambitions, the destination is poised to have a regenerative impact on the environment. It aims to deliver a 30% net conservation benefit to local ecosystems by 2040, enhancing diverse habitats such as mangroves, seagrass, corals, and land vegetation, fostering biodiversity, and contributing to carbon sequestration efforts.
Amaala’s Grand Vision Unveiled
Phase One of Amaala, focused on the Triple Bay masterplan, is set to welcome its first guests in early 2025. Upon completion, the destination will feature over 3,900 hotel rooms, 29 hotels, 1,200 high-end residences, upscale retail establishments, fine dining, wellness facilities, and recreational amenities. Additionally, it will provide a vibrant community for over 15,000 residents and workers, exemplifying the commitment to sustainability, luxury, and environmental stewardship.
In a world increasingly focused on environmental preservation, Red Sea Global’s Amaala project shines as a beacon of hope and innovation, a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in building a greener future. It is a model that showcases how luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist, leaving a positive and lasting impact on the world.
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Photo – top of page – Amaala (Courtesy – Red Sea Global)
