Solar panels for Abu Dhabi villas: the 2026 rules and tariffs
What Abu Dhabi's new self-supply solar and battery policy means for villa owners.
Abu Dhabi's Department of Energy introduced a policy on the use of solar PV and battery storage for self-supply. It took effect on 5 February 2026.
Phase One and Phase Two
- Phase One covered farms, estates and retreats, with standard rules for approval, licensing and grid connection.
- Phase Two, announced at the end of March 2026, opens rooftop solar and battery storage to villa owners and, where applicable, residential buildings, while staying connected to the grid.
What electricity costs in Abu Dhabi
ADDC villa tariffs, VAT included: expats pay 26.8 fils per kWh up to 200 kWh a day and 30.5 fils above it; UAE nationals pay 6.7 fils up to 400 kWh a day and 7.5 fils above. Lower rates than Dubai mean longer payback, so size the system to what you use.
What we don't know yet
The public sources we reviewed do not publish how exported power is paid for or the size limits for villas. Ask your installer to confirm the current Department of Energy and distribution company requirements in writing before you sign.
Rules and prices change; confirm with your utility and installer.