MEYDAN, the developer of the iconic Meydan grandstand and racecourse, has announced the completion of the installation of solar panels on its distinctive crescent roof atop the grandstand, taking it one step closer towards finalising preparations for the hosting of Dubai’s racing season which starts on January 28.

The solar-powered panels are part of an innovative architectural solution that helps meet approximately 20 per cent of the energy needs of the Meydan grandstand. Global solar energy service provider Suntech Power Holdings was commissioned to undertake the custom-build, production and the installation of 4,840 solar panels which measure 1.1 m by 1.1 m per piece. These panels were then individually integrated and installed directly into the cantilevered roof’s skin to comply with the aesthetic vision of the architects.
Spanning a total surface area of 63,000 sq ft, Meydan’s rooftop solar-energy structure is the biggest of its kind in the UAE with a 750 kW energy output system. It is also the largest solar array to be connected to the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority’s (Dewa) grid. A monitoring system has also been installed on the rooftop that will continuously measure the power output of the solar array, as well as environmental data like wind speed, temperature and irradiation levels.
Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, chairman of the board and CEO of Meydan, said that the rooftop solar panels are just the start of an unwavering commitment towards building an intelligent and ecologically-sustainable global city for future generations to come.
Dr Zhengrong Shi, chairman and chief executive officer of Suntech Power Holdings, said: “We’re extremely pleased about our collaboration with Meydan on an iconic project such as the Meydan grandstand. The crescent roof solar system not only produces clean electricity, it is also an exceptional example of blending solar technology into modern architecture. Suntech is proud to have played a role in developing the  solar system and facilitating Meydan’s efforts to generate renewable energy to power this magnificent facility.”