UAE targets 50% clean energy by 2050, investing >$160B.

UAE's Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park will be 5 GW, world’s largest.

UAE Al Dhafra plant 2 GW, world's largest single-site PV, cuts 2.4M CO2.

UAE Shams 1 solar thermal plant supports 50% clean energy target.

Saudi Vision 2030 aims 15,000 MW renewables 2022-23, 50% gas/renewables by 2030.

Saudi Ministry of Energy signed 2 solar PPAs totaling 1,000 MW.

Saudi Power Company signed 3 solar PV projects totaling 5,500 MW.

Saudi Green Initiative will cut 278M tonnes CO2 by 2030, 50% renewables by 2060.

Oman Vision 2040 includes 607 MW Abu Bari solar PV, cuts 340k t CO2.

Oman OETC polysilicon factory will produce 100k tonnes annually, first in Middle East.

Morocco Noor Ouarzazate is world’s largest concentrated solar plant, 52% renewables by 2030.

Morocco wind capacity reached 1.2 GW in 2019.

Egypt Benban Solar Park is world’s largest PV plant, 42% renewables by 2035.

Egypt Zafarana Wind Farm is one of Africa’s largest wind farms.

Bahrain Ministry of Agriculture promotes solar on farms to cut electricity bills.

Bahrain tender for 72 MW rooftop solar PV plant supports carbon zero by 2060.

GCC ministers pledge to triple renewable capacity by 2030, reaffirm UNFCCC commitment.

GCC solar PV cost falls below 2¢/kWh, cheaper than gas and LNG.

GCC solar PV capacity grew from 176 MW in 2013 to >5.6 GW in 2022.

GCC energy transition pillars are energy security, economic development, and climate change.

UAE targets 50% clean energy by 2050, investing >$160B.

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Content: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues have become increasingly prominent on the global stage as organisations recognise the need to integrate sustainability into their operations.

As the Middle East moves towards a low carbon future, sustainability has become a top priority for organisations and governments across the region.

Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai announced while launching the National Hydrogen Strategy that the UAE is to invest up to AED 200 billion ($54.5 billion) in renewable energy.

The launch of a AED 4 billion renewable energy plant in Dubai,  and the world’s largest waste-to-energy plant are proof of sustainability climbing the agenda.

With COP 28 being held in the UAE this year, there is a renewed sense of urgency on climate change action, and the net-zero carbon target is being prioritised through policies and actions.

After all, sustainability will boost the UAE’s economic competitiveness, drive innovative policy and improve investment opportunities.

The region has seen notable sustainability innovations, including Saudi Arabia’s rapid transition to a circular carbon economy, Bahrain’s state oil company refinancing a $2.2 billion sustainability-linked corporate finance facility, and Oman’s exploration of green hydrogen as a clean energy source.

However, the Middle East faces its own unique challenges in implementing ESG practices, especially around accurate sustainability reporting and implementing early regulations to fill in previous gaps.

Other challenges that hinder the progress of the region’s ESG agenda include the talent gap, how corporates in the region address the need to implement ESG practices, as well as data availability.

Regulatory frameworks

While standardised frameworks and reporting guidelines begin to form, the lack of clear regulations can hinder consistent measurement and disclosure of ESG performance.

Global frameworks have now become more widely adopted in the region such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the newly published International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).

The gap in standardisation previously posed challenges for investors and stakeholders who relied on transparent and comparable ESG data for decision-making, however, we are starting to see drastic changes in this area.

Data availability

Many companies in the Middle East still face challenges in collecting, managing, and reporting ESG data, which can hinder their ability to effectively assess and manage their sustainability performance.

Data is the first step to measure any status, but also measure progress. Improving data collection mechanisms and investing in robust reporting systems will be instrumental in addressing this challenge.

ESG talent gap

Organisations need individuals with specialised knowledge and expertise in ESG practices to drive sustainable strategies effectively. Alongside this specialised knowledge, the industry also needs innovators, risk takers, agitators for change, mentors, and communicators in the field. There is however, a shortage of skilled professionals in the region with a deep understanding of ESG principles to drive innovative solutions.

Bridging this gap requires investment in education and training programmes to build a skilled workforce capable of integrating ESG considerations into business practices. Universities and training institutions are therefore increasingly offering courses and programmes on sustainability and ESG and businesses are partnering with academic institutions to develop tailored training initiatives and internships, nurturing a pipeline of talent equipped with the required knowledge and skills.

These efforts will cultivate a sustainable workforce capable of implementing and driving ESG practices in the Middle East.

Implementation by region’s corporates

Despite the challenges, corporations in the Middle East are embracing ESG practices, recognising the importance of sustainability and responsible business conduct. We see this through accelerated electrification and the increase of decarbonizing energy supply.

The GCC’s oil-producing nations have made efforts to diversify energy sources, transitioning towards net-zero carbon fuels for transportation. Investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind, aim to mitigate environmental impacts and promote a low-carbon economic future transforming the economic system and supply chain.

Additionally, social considerations are gaining prominence. Companies are addressing social issues through initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and employee welfare.

Governance practices are also being strengthened to ensure transparency, accountability, regulatory reforms and ethical conduct.

While obstacles in integrating ESG practices persist in the Middle East, corporates in the region are proactively embracing sustainability and responsible business practices.

That the Middle East is emerging as a leader in ESG adoption is apparent through their fullfillment of the UN SDG goals which has driven positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes for businesses and society as a whole.

Title:

Content: A Pessimistic Report on the Future of “Life ” in the Gulf Region – Al-Marsad Libyan Newspaper
DUBAI – In a report on the implications of global warming for the Gulf region, AFP quoted a climate expert as saying that temperatures could reach levels “incompatible with human survival ” by the end of the century.
For example, the report pointed out that citizens and residents of Dubai, when the heat is intense with high humidity, usually move to other places, while those who decide to stay during the summer rely on air conditioning and delivery services.
Al-Fateh Al-Taher, a professor of hydrology and climate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, believes that “the level of heat stress in general will increase significantly ” in many Gulf cities, noting that by the end of the century, other places in the Gulf may experience“ thermal stress conditions that are incompatible with human survival. ”
The UAE has launched its Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to increase the contribution of clean energy from 25% to 50% and reduce carbon emissions from electricity production by 70%.
Tenzid Alam, director of Dubai-based environmental consultancy Earth Matters, said: “There is more interest in the UAE on this subject, but we are waiting for big companies to take it seriously, ” expressing hope that the UN experts ’ report will sound the alarm.
It was also pointed out that over the past years the UAE has used airplanes for rain enhancement, and soon, it could start using drones very much the same.
A report by UN climate experts predicted that global warming by 2030 would rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to the pre-industrial era, 10 years before the last estimate was made three years ago, threatening new disasters described as “unprecedented ” in the world.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres commented on the climate experts' report by saying it was "a red alert for humanity.
“Alarm bells are deafening: greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and deforestation are suffocating our planet. ”
The report monitored the efforts of the Gulf states to preserve the environment, noting that the governments of this region, which depends heavily on the exploitation of hydrocarbons, have sought in recent years to "change their discourse on the environment as part of their efforts to diversify their economy."
Abu Dhabi is building a solar power plant that it says will be one of the largest in the world, while Saudi Arabia, the world ’ s largest oil exporter, has announced a number of reforms to diversify the economy.
It has announced a number of major environmental projects with a focus on solar energy.
The report touched on private environmental initiatives in the region, noting that nine years ago Mohamed Abdel Aal founded a technology startup that “provides water tanks with cooling solutions during the hottest periods of summer using only solar energy. ”
Abdel Aal said his company “Silent Force ” saw increased demand in Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the summer of 2021 which was very hot, adding:“ We are preparing to be in all GCC countries by 2022. ”
“The region has long and powerful sunrise hours to create and produce new eco-friendly devices that rely solely on clean, sustainable and low-cost energy to help protect our environment, and ensure a better quality of life for us and the future of our children, ” said Abdel Aal.
In Kuwait, Khalid Jamal al-Falih has decided to convert his entire home to solar energy and is calling on the government to make “clear decisions ” in the face of global warming.
Al-Falih explained in a statement to the agency the situation of life in the area by saying: “Today in Kuwait, no one can leave until after 6 pm and must use an air-conditioned car to go to an air-conditioned place. ”
Al-Falih stressed the "impossibility" of avoiding the effects of climate change, adding that "we are at a critical stage and need awareness and a clear government decision."
Source: AFP

Title:

Content: The Guardian: The Middle East is facing a ‘ resurrection ’
And Mecca may not be livable by the end of the century.
Friday 29 October 2021 05: 27 pm / Jerusalem time + 2GMT
London / Sama /
Titled “Resurrection Soon: A Reluctant Middle East Forced to Awareness of the Climate Crisis, ” The Guardian ’ s diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour said that Hurricane Shaheen hit Oman some time ago, the first tropical cyclone to reach this point west into the Gulf.
In Basra, southern Iraq, power has been cut off frequently as a result of this summer ’ s temperature of 50 degrees Celsius, forcing residents to move in their cars to get cold.
Kuwait broke the record for the hottest day of 2016 of 53.6 degrees Celsius, and this summer temperatures were very high, with floods in Jeddah and more recently in Mecca at a time when temperatures in Saudi Arabia have increased by 2 percent and the maximum temperature of 2.5 percent since the 1980s.
Qatar is the world ’ s highest emitting country and the world ’ s largest producer of liquefied gas (LNG), and public spaces are equipped with air conditioners.
In Tehran, pollution annually kills 4,000 people a year, and in Khuzestan province, citizens have blocked streets and burned tires due to drought as a result of mismanagement, U.S. sanctions and a deadly atmosphere.
In the United Arab Emirates, the climate crisis is estimated to cost $6 billion a year, the highest in terms of health costs.
The salinity of the Gulf increased with the proliferation of desalination plants by 20%, which affected marine life and biodiversity.
Conditions are expected to worsen at a time of rising temperatures, humidity and sea levels.
Warming rates in the Middle East are twice as high as in the world.
By the end of the century, if the dangerous predictions are correct, Mecca may not be fit for life, making the Hajj season dangerous if not catastrophic.
Large swaths of the Middle East have come to resemble the Afar region of Ethiopia, a vast area without human settlement that pushes towards the Red Sea.
The glittering cities of the Gulf may face the dilemma of rising water levels themselves.
We do not speak of the day of judgment, but of the day of judgment.
Jim Crane, an energy researcher at Rice University in Houston, said: “This is really a difficult topic because the interests of the ruling elites are at odds with the interests of the citizens.
The ruling elite depends on oil resources for the survival of their regimes.
They want to keep the oil trade in order to keep them in power.
Their system is based on oil leasing, but the population ’ s ultimate interests lie in a sustainable climate. ”
Zeina Khalil Haj, founder of Greenpeace in the Middle East, believes that the region is suffering from double pressure: “With increasing demands for energy change, a region that relies on fossil energy, oil and carbon for its economic survival, but cannot continue this dependency.
There will be no oil market but with climate change, they are required to increase efforts to survive.
The extreme climate is changing people ’ s lives on a daily basis and there is no choice but to go green. ”
The West ’ s persistent appetite for fossil energy has led the region to build car-based cities, shiny skyscrapers filled with air conditioners and shopping malls.
It must look for ways to avoid self-destruction, and it must be, according to Thomas Friedman, the Prometheus moment for the Middle East and the search for creative and creative ways.
In fact, the region has been reminded for a decade that it has to make the transition from oil.
Although the moment when oil demand will reach its highest point remains controversial, and depends on a number of assumptions about regulation, technology and customer behavior, the point I mentioned is 2040, after which demand will decline.
But the International Energy Organization ’ s “Net Zero ” report sees the peak as 2050 and by comparison suggests a reduction in oil demand from 88 million barrels per day in 2020 to 72 million barrels per day by 2030, and 24 million barrels per day in 2050, a 75% decline between 2020-2050.
The report argues that the Gulf has three factors underpinning the transformation: capital, sun, and vast, empty spaces.
Until recently, the Gulf states, including Iran, did not feel the desire to shift away from fossil energy to this extent.
When asked, Saudi Oil Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said it was “a sequel to La La Land, ” meaning that the report and its writers do not know what is happening.
"If I wanted to worry about the IEA's expectations, I would be on Prozac all the time," he said.
Qatar ’ s Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said reducing oil and gas production levels would affect the supply process and laughed at “the enthusiasm surrounding the transition. ”
The Organization of Petroleum Producing and Exporting Countries (OPEC) forecasts that the process of oil demand will increase significantly through 2045 and the share of oil in global energy demand will fall from 30% to 28%, which is not a green revolution.
Gulf states still rely on gas and oil exports, accounting for 70 percent of goods exported from Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Oil resources account for more than 70% of the total resources of Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain.
In Vision 2030, published by Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016, he promised to turn the country into an important industrial hub.
World Bank figures show that Saudi Arabia relies on 75% of its oil resources for its budget.
Aramco, which is making its mark on global carbon emissions, is not diversifying at the same pace as Shell or BP.
Instead, it announced it would increase crude oil production capacity from 12 million barrels per day to 13 million barrels per day by 2027.
Haj believes that the shift away from oil may require a psychological shift from the consumer mentality, “The Gulf has not yet reached this kind of discussion.
If you see the way of life in the UAE and Qatar, it is based on inexhaustible consumption, and I fear we are still a long way from that in terms of politics and readiness. ”
Iran is the largest country in the world in terms of carbon emissions by population, followed by the UAE in second place and Saudi Arabia in 13th place.
Of course, Gulf rulers at events such as the Glasgow climate conference can defend themselves by saying that their region is not the primary source of carbon emissions, and historically, collectively, accounts for 4.7% less than carbon emissions and pollution from the United States, Europe and China.
The Middle East exports oil, but pollution is the responsibility of those who import it.
But the region ’ s leaders have come to grips with the problem not because of Western pressure but in response to citizens ’ demands, the goose has realized that the eggs, the oil, are no longer golden but brown.
The UAE is the first country to say it has moved to ratify the Paris Treaty and is the least dependent Gulf state on oil for its government resources.
Last week, she announced the “Net Zero by 2050 Initiative ” with an initial investment budget of $163 billion and appointed the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Maryam Al Muhairi.
The announcement came after the government ordered awareness sessions in all its ministries since June for 80 days.
It was the first country in the Gulf to adopt a net zero domestic consumption policy.
The plan is still in its infancy and some of its features are unclear, but the direction is clear.
It promised to rely on renewable and nuclear energy by 50% to generate electricity by 2050.
Abu Dhabi ’ s national oil company said it would get 100 percent of its electricity from the nuclear reactor and solar power.
The Mohammed bin Maktoum Solar Park will be the largest in the world with a capacity of 5,000 megawatts.
Gulf states are competing with each other, with news reports that Qatar has appointed a climate minister, Bahrain aiming for net zero carbon by 2050 and Kuwait announcing a plan to reduce carbon emissions.
Saudi Arabia does not like to be late.
It announced that it would increase the proportion of renewable energy from 0.3% to 50% by 2030.
The plan is to plant 10 million trees in the coming decades.
Over the weekend, the kingdom organized a summit of the Green Middle East Initiative, attended by John Kerry and Britain ’ s Prince Charles.
It promised to reach net zero carbon emissions in its territory by 2060.
The main reason the Gulf states have been slow to shift away from oil and its commodities is that they have made them rich and helped them anesthetize their citizens.
Their loyalty was bought through a series of subsidies for water, electricity, fuel and tax breaks.
These dynamics were different from Iraq, Lebanon and to a lesser extent Iran, but the situation is changing with the emergence of local environmental groups.

Title:

Content: Building a sustainable tomorrow with cities of the future

The UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy is a key enabler of its ambitious vision for a sustainable future

By Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa

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A view of Sharjah Sustainable City. — Supplied photo

Published: Thu 29 Feb 2024, 5:36 PM

While cities play a pivotal role in the global economy by virtue of being home to more than half of the world’s population, adopting and applying the principles of circular economy to urban development is certain to create sustainable cities that can thrive in the long term, bringing prosperity to their inhabitants.

Climate action and urban systems

This simple but powerful approach assumes all the more importance, considering that the window to curb climate change is narrowing, and more aggressive actions are needed to fundamentally change urban systems. An approach that contributes to the global energy transition and fully exploits the links connecting multiple infrastructures, enhances integrated governance and finance and deepens engagement among diverse stakeholders, can therefore maximize the benefits of climate actions. Those powerful thoughts were in the spotlight at the recently concluded World Governments Summit 2024, where a panel session titled “Building a Sustainable Future Above Cities” shed light on the critical priorities of the sector in the decades ahead.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has estimated that annual global economic output could reduce by as much as $23 trillion globally as a direct consequence of increased emissions. Therefore, addressing climate change is an urgent collective responsibility shared across the public and private sectors.

Sustainable urban development

But here in the UAE, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about a sustainable future for cities.

Dubai, for instance, has approved regulations such as the Green Building and Sustainable Building Standards to ensure that developers adhere to sustainable development practices. Abu Dhabi launched the Estidama Pearl Rating System in 2010, which is used to evaluate sustainable building development practices and minimise water, energy consumption, and waste generation. That’s the reason sustainable projects such as the Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, and communities such as Sharjah Sustainable City have already made their mark on the national net-zero landscape.

Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Sustainable City

Indeed, as the first Middle East and North Africa (Mena) country to set a target to achieve net-zero emissions, the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategy is a key enabler of its ambitious vision for a sustainable future. With a projected investment of more than $160 billion announced by the UAE to achieve net-zero by 2050, it significantly boosts the scope for more sustainable developments across the country to further burnish the UAE’s global standing as a future-ready destination for investments.

As the discussions at the World Governments Summit panel demonstrated, the UAE’s efforts to leverage the energy transition and drive collaborations with all industries and government stakeholders to create an ecosystem of sustainability across projects and communities is commendable.

Sustainable cities

Sharjah Sustainable City – a joint venture between the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and Diamond Developers – stands out for the incredible opportunities it offers in this regard.

Representing an environmental leap for sustainable habitats in the UAE, the city aspires to achieve net-zero and provides practical solutions related to food security, water and energy management, and conservation of natural resources. It is cultivating an exceptional and sustainable society that embraces the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and inspires a low-carbon future. All villas are designed as smart homes and equipped with energy-efficient kitchen appliances, thermal insulating construction materials, smart home automation, energy-saving electrical fittings, and rooftop solar PV installations, helping residents save up to 50% on utility bills.

Indeed, sustainable cities like Sharjah Sustainable City not only offer a successful pathway to building a sustainable future for cities but also demonstrate a deep understanding of the UAE real estate market, creating future-proof properties with excellent amenities.

Ultimately, while there is a long way to go for a global ecosystem of sustainable cities to flourish and for net-zero to become a commercially viable reality, projects such as the Sharjah Sustainable City clearly show the way in building a sustainable environment for our future generations.

The writer is Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Sustainable City

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Content: World Future Energy Summit to focus on providing ‘sustainability blueprint’

The three-day event will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from January 16 to January 18

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The 2023 World Future Energy Summit aims to provide a “crucial sustainability blueprint” amid a global focus on the energy transition and measures to boost investment in the renewables sector.

Energy industry leaders and policymakers from around the world will participate in the three-day event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from January 16 to January 18, organisers said on Wednesday.

The summit is the centrepiece of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, a global initiative championed by the UAE and Abu Dhabi's clean energy company Masdar to hasten sustainable development and advance economic, social, and environmental progress.

“This event has evolved just as the energy sector and our economies are transitioning,” said Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.

“It has now morphed into the Middle East’s most important industry gathering, of which clean energy and infrastructure are key components.”

Countries in the Middle East such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman and Egypt are boosting investment in the clean energy sector.

The UAE is investing Dh600 billion ($163.5bn) in clean and renewable energy projects over the next three decades as it aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

It is building the world’s largest solar plant with a capacity of two gigawatts in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region that is expected to be ready next year, as well as the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park in Dubai with a capacity of five gigawatts.

Saudi Arabia, the Arab world’s largest economy, also announced a number of new renewable energy projects as it seeks to become carbon neutral by 2060.

Egypt, the most populous country in the Arab world, aims to derive 42 per cent of its electricity mix from renewable sources by 2035. The North African country is hosting Cop27 next month.

“This newly transitioned event profile is in the right place at the right time, underlining a much-needed shift towards reaching our clean energy goals, as well as achieving sustainable governance and adopting consumption and [the] production of natural energy methods that ensure the quality of life for current and future generations,” Mr Al Mazrouei said.

Renewable energy investment continued to rise amid green transition efforts globally. Capital investments in renewables are set to surpass oil and gas spending for the first time in 2022 as high power prices prompt countries to further diversify their energy mix, according to a report by Rystad Energy.

Investment in renewable energy is set to hit $494bn in 2022, outstripping upstream oil and gas spending at $446bn for the year, the Oslo-based energy consultancy said this month.

In addition to the focus on energy, water, eco-waste, solar, smart cities, climate and the environment, next year's event will also preside over the launch of a dedicated hydrogen innovation centre as demand for the clean fuel picks up globally amid green transition efforts, organisers said.

The event takes place at a time when the UAE is preparing to host Cop28 next year.

Updated: October 19, 2022, 10:41 AM
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UAE's Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park will be 5 GW, world’s largest.

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Content: Fossil fuels, which have powered the industrial growth and development of civilisations for centuries, are facing a looming deadline of depletion. Moreover, they have caused severe environmental and social problems, such as climate change, conflicts, and pollution. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent. However, the transition to a post-fossil fuel era is not easy or straightforward. It requires innovation, investment, cooperation, and vision.

This article explores the challenges and opportunities of global energy transformation, focusing on the dual nature of fossil fuels, the countdown to their exhaustion, and the promise of renewable energy sources. It also highlights the progress and potential of some countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world.

Fossil Fuels: A Double-Edged Sword

Fossil fuels, comprising oil, coal, and natural gas, are ancient energy sources that have been central to the development of various industries and sectors. They have enhanced transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and electricity generation. They have catalysed global trade, commerce, and innovation, elevating the quality of life for millions.

However, this ascent has been coupled with profound challenges. Fossil fuels have been a source of geopolitical strife, epitomised by wars and conflicts over their control and distribution. They have also exacerbated environmental issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and climate change. Incidents like oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have inflicted severe damage on ecosystems and public health.

The Countdown to Depletion

The finite and non-renewable nature of fossil fuels leaves humanity facing a daunting deadline. Predicting the exact exhaustion of these resources is a complex endeavour, influenced by reserves, consumption rates, technological advancements, and price fluctuations. Nonetheless, projections based on current data paint a concerning picture.

According to Octopus Energy, the year 2060 may mark the twilight of fossil fuels, based on current consumption and reserve estimates. In 2020, global oil production reached 91.7 million barrels per day (b/d), with key players like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Russia at the forefront. Simultaneously, natural gas production stood at 3.94 trillion cubic meters (bcm). Although the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily curtailed production, a resurgence is anticipated. In contrast, natural gas consumption steadily rises by over 3% each year.

Should additional oil reserves remain elusive, known deposits could be depleted by 2052. The stark reality is that demand for oil has surged, nearly doubling the average annual rate observed over the preceding decade in 2018.

Toward a Sustainable Energy Paradigm

The global imperative for alternative energy sources is clear. Sustainable options, even if not entirely devoid of environmental impact, have become a linchpin of energy discussions. The quest for sustainability is no longer optional; it is fundamental to securing a prosperous future.

Embracing alternative and sustainable energy solutions is our paramount responsibility. The adverse consequences of persisting with fossil fuels are increasingly undeniable. Furthermore, incidents such as oil spills, gas leaks, and fracking have grievously scarred ecosystems and human health.

The geopolitical maelstrom surrounding fossil fuels is a testament to their strategic importance. By reducing our dependence on these finite resources, we can contribute to global stability and peace.

The Promise of Sustainable Energy

Investing in sustainable energy is not merely an ecological commitment; it is a strategic move to safeguard long-term energy security. Renewable sources like solar and wind power do not suffer the same spectre of depletion as fossil fuels, offering a reliable and sustainable energy future. Moreover, technology’s relentless march is enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these alternatives, ensuring a seamless transition.

In this era of unprecedented global challenges, the unsustainable trajectory of fossil fuels is no longer tenable. Transitioning to renewable and sustainable energy sources is both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. As we confront the relentless march of climate change, endeavouring to secure long-term energy stability and foster global peace, embracing this transformation is our only viable path toward a sustainable and prosperous future. It is a journey we must embark upon with unwavering determination and foresight.

The MENA Region: The abundance of wisdom

The MENA region stands as an interesting case study for global energy transformation. The region is one of the most dependent regions on fossil fuels in the world. According to the World Bank, the region accounted for 36% of the global oil production and 20% of the global gas production in 2018. However, the region also faces many challenges and risks related to its reliance on fossil fuels, such as price volatility, environmental degradation, social unrest, and geopolitical conflicts.

Therefore, some countries in the region have started to prepare for the transition to a post-fossil fuel era by diversifying their economies, investing in renewable energy sources, and promoting innovation and sustainability. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the MENA region has a huge potential for renewable energy development, especially solar and wind power. The report estimates that the region could generate more than 60% of its total electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

Some of the countries that have made significant progress in this field are:

• UAE: The UAE has been a leader in innovation and sustainability in the region, with a vision of becoming a global hub for green economy and clean energy. The UAE has set a target of increasing its share of clean energy to 50% by 2050. The UAE has invested in various renewable energy projects, such as the Shams 1 solar thermal plant, which is one of the largest of its kind in the world, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is planned to be the largest single-site solar park in the world by 2030. The UAE is also home to Masdar City, which is a planned city that aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world. Also, UAE is one of the 10 largest oil producing countries with a proven reserves, according to BP statistical reviews, of 100 billion barrels.

• Morocco: Morocco has been a pioneer in renewable energy development in the region, with a target of achieving 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Morocco has invested heavily in solar power projects, such as the Noor Ouarzazate complex, which is the largest concentrated solar power plant in the world. Morocco also has a strong wind power sector, with a capacity of over 1.2 gigawatts (GW) as of 2019.

• Egypt: Egypt has also been pursuing an ambitious renewable energy strategy, with a goal of reaching 42% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035. Egypt has a large potential for solar and wind power, especially in the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea coast. Egypt has launched several large-scale projects, such as the Benban Solar Park, which is expected to be the largest solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in the world when completed, and the Zafarana Wind Farm, which is one of the largest wind farms in Africa.

These are some examples of countries in the MENA region that are prepared for after fossil fuels era. However, there are still many challenges and barriers that need to be overcome, such as policy and regulatory frameworks, financing and investment mechanisms, public awareness and participation, and regional cooperation and integration.

The world is at a crossroads in its energy choices. Fossil fuels have been instrumental in driving industrial growth and development, but they have also caused severe environmental problems. Their finite nature also poses a threat to long-term energy security. The need for alternative and sustainable energy sources is clear and urgent.

Renewable energy sources offer a promising solution to this challenge. They are abundant, reliable, and sustainable. They can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change impacts, and foster global peace. They can also create new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social welfare.

— Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi is a former UAE minister of Infrastructure Development and for Climate Change and Environment

Title:

Content: New technologies to achieve sustainability goals and address climate change
Science and Technology
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Existing renewable energy initiatives in the Middle East are strengthening their role in supporting international efforts to address climate change.
In particular, the region is one of the largest contributors to the oil and gas sector globally, and at the same time is the cradle of a number of major and ambitious initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing the reliance on clean energy.
In the UAE, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the world ’ s largest IPP solar site, and the Al Dhafra Solar PV Plant is being built as the world ’ s largest solar power plant with a capacity of 2 GW.
Masdar City is the most sustainable urban community in the world.
ADFD is committed to funding innovative projects to accelerate access to sustainable energy as part of a joint initiative with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
In Saudi Arabia, Neom recently launched The Line, the world ’ s first car-free, carbon-free city with 100% renewable energy.
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) leads green energy projects designed to manage the recycling of grey water for reuse for plant irrigation and other purposes, and also has large area photovoltaic panels that produce clean electricity.
In Egypt, hydropower is the second source of energy after thermal, wind and solar, and the country has developed a number of future projects that seek to exploit solar energy and replace non-renewable energy.
Other green projects in Egypt include the cities of Jebel Galala and El Alamein.
The Bahrain World Trade Centre is one of the world ’ s leading examples of sustainable architecture, taking the lead in being the first skyscraper in the world to introduce wind turbines to provide total energy consumption.
Morocco, famous for its huge and world-leading solar arrays, has made a big name for itself as a leader in the fight against climate change, renewable energy makes up nearly two-fifths of the country ’ s electricity, and the country implements some of the world ’ s largest clean energy projects.
Since 2012, Jordan has turned to solar power to generate electricity and government policies have pushed citizens and investors to turn to renewable energy to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, by offering financial facilities to investors and reducing the electricity bill.
Sustainability initiatives in the Arab countries contribute effectively to building a diversified digital economy that achieves the national visions of these countries, and the green economy initiative launched by the UAE, and the Saudi Green Initiative is a good example of this.
Today, the ICT sector is increasingly playing a role in achieving sustainability through new technologies such as 5G, cloud computing and artificial intelligence that will play a key role in implementing clean energy initiatives as they enhance productivity, improve efficiency, reduce costs and waste, evaluate business systems, analyze waste, track problems and develop solutions.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) says ICT will contribute to achieving the UN ’ s Sustainable Development Goals and improving the quality of life.
According to the United Nations, ICT can be relied upon in two ways: reliance on clean information and communication technology, and clean energy generation based on information and communication technology.
In the first scenario, ICT solutions that contribute to environmental safety and carbon reduction are designed.
In the second scenario, ICT solutions such as those in grids, buildings, smart logistics and industrial processes help promote sustainability and energy efficiency.
The sustainability efforts of tech companies have been recognized globally, Huawei is an example of companies that have adjusted their business in line with sustainability goals, and recently received an award from the International Mobile Phone Association for their contributions to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through mobile devices.
The company aims to rely on innovative technologies to drive clean development across various sectors and industries, and in 2021 it used more than 300 million kWh of electricity produced from renewable sources, an increase of 42.3% compared to 2020.
Huawei ’ s digital power solutions have generated 482.9 billion kilowatt-hours of clean energy and reduced electricity consumption by 14.2 billion kilowatt-hours, equivalent to 230 million tons of carbon emissions.
In parallel with efforts to promote a sustainable approach to technology, the ICT industry must not lose sight of the issue of enhanced security.
Technology providers should focus on protecting user privacy when working to provide modern, seamless technology and communications.
Certainly, we will not be able to grow the business and ensure its sustainability if we do not provide safe and reliable technologies to protect cybersecurity, which is a shared responsibility of all stakeholders involved in sustainability.
The current digital divide could isolate millions of people around the world from contributing to the development of a clean economy.
Tech companies can contribute to making technology accessible to all thanks to their technical capabilities and resources.
Through initiatives such as TECH4ALL, Huawei has relied on digital technologies to implement programs aimed at enhancing the leadership capabilities of more than 110,000 people in 2021.
The digital divide in global talent could undermine sustainability efforts, so greater emphasis should be placed on redressing it and priority should be given to strengthening collaboration between tech companies, academia and government institutions in order to bridge the digital skills gap.
By investing in programs to prepare local technical cadres, hone skills and enhance practical experience, more bridges of cooperation between the public and private sectors can be built to prepare the future generation of sustainability leaders with the help of technology.
Huawei has established 163 ICT academies in the Middle East.
More than 3,500 students participated in the Seeds for the Global Future program, while more than 37,000 students received Huawei certifications.
The company has also provided training to more than 120,000 ICT talents in the region who are expected to contribute to the advancement of sustainability in the countries of the region by making the most of technology.
In light of the increasing challenges of reducing carbon emissions facing various countries around the world, we all have a responsibility to strengthen cooperation and work together to build a sustainable and prosperous future for future generations.
By: Ammar Taba, Huawei Vice President for Public Relations and Media in the Middle East
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Content: The United Arab Emirates launched the Al Dhafra solar farm ahead of COP28, which is currently the largest single point solar farm in the world.
The 2 gigawatt (GW) solar farm is 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Abu Dhabi and has nearly 4 million double-sided solar panels.
It will power nearly 200,000 homes and reduce carbon emissions by more than 2.4 million tons per year.
It created 4,500 jobs at the peak of construction, with solar panels installed at an average rate of 10 megawatts (MW) per day during construction.
Al Dhafra is jointly developed by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), EDF Renewable Energy and Chinese solar developer Jingke Power.
TAQA owns 40% of the project, while Masdar, EDF Renewables and JinkoSolar each own 20%.
Under the 2020 power purchase agreement, the solar power plant will supply electricity to the UAE Hydropower Company (EWEC).
Now that Al Dhafra is online, the UAE ’ s solar power capacity has increased to 3.2 GW. In September, EWEC solicited a proposal to develop a 1.5 GW solar power plant in Al Khazna, near Abu Dhabi.
The UAE aims to triple its renewable energy capacity to 14 GW by 2030.

UAE Al Dhafra plant 2 GW, world's largest single-site PV, cuts 2.4M CO2.

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Content: People 's Network > > International
The Middle East: Struggling between reconciliation and conflict
December 25, 2023, 16: 10 | Source: Xinhua Network
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Xinhua News Agency, CAIRO, December 25, (International Watch) The World's Seven Regions 2023 Review | The Middle East: Struggling Between Reconciliation and Conflict
By Xinhua reporter Chen Mengyang
Reconciliation and cooperation, disasters and conflicts, growth and decline … The Middle East presents a complex picture in 2023, reflecting the coexistence of hope and challenges, vitality and hardship in the region.
Reunification of Shay leads to regional reconciliation
In 2023, reconciliation and cooperation are the salient features of the situation in the Middle East, indicating the growing autonomy of the Middle East countries.
Under the mediation of China, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed in March to resume diplomatic relations after severing diplomatic ties for seven years.
This has shocked the world by reviving old enemies in the Middle East.
Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to hold a joint summit of leaders of the Arab and Islamic countries in Riyadh on November 11, the first visit by an Iranian president to Saudi Arabia since 2012.
In 2023, the Middle East countries made a series of progress in the regional reconciliation process: Israel and the United Arab Emirates signed their first free trade agreement with Arab countries; Turkey and Egypt sent ministerial officials to exchange visits for the first time in years; Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates announced the resumption of formal diplomatic relations; Syria was suspended for more than a decade.
Speaking at the 32nd Arab League summit on reconciliation and unity, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed said that peace, unity, cooperation and construction are in the interest of the Arab peoples. "We will not let this region become a zone of conflict," he said.
In 2023, the role of Middle East countries in international and regional multilateral organizations and cooperation mechanisms will continue to increase.
Iran officially joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Iran were invited to join the BRICS cooperation mechanism.
Zou Zhiqiang, a scholar at the Center for Middle East Studies of Fudan University, believes that the situation in the Middle East in 2023 has shown an unprecedented momentum
Although the Middle East peace process has been suspended due to the outbreak of a new round of Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it will not continue, and the general trend of relaxation and local instability will not be fundamentally changed.
Serious consequences of conflict
In 2023, there will be many serious natural disasters and armed conflicts in the Middle East, which will seriously affect regional stability and development prospects.
On February 6, a powerful earthquake hit Turkey's southern border region near Syria, killing more than 50,000 people and leaving millions homeless. Damage in Turkey alone amounted to about 100 billion U.S. dollars. On September 8, a powerful earthquake hit Morocco, killing more than 2,900 people and injuring more than 5,000 others.
Many people have been unable to return to their homes since the two major earthquakes caused huge loss of life and property.
The armed conflict has cast a shadow over the Middle East in 2023. On April 15, fierce clashes broke out in Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, and the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces exchanged fire, which has continued to this day. On October 7, a large-scale armed conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has caused huge casualties.
The Palestinian-Israeli issue has once again become the focus of great attention of the international community.
The new round of Israeli-Palestinian conflict has turned the situation in the region into chaos, disrupting the process of reconciliation between Israel and other Arab countries and Turkey.
In addition, unstable factors such as the Iranian nuclear issue, the civil war in Yemen, the conflict between Lebanon and Syria and Israel, and Turkey ’ s cross-border attack on PKK militants continue to plague the Middle East.
Multinational economic development in the doldrums
In 2023, due to multiple internal and external factors, in addition to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, economic growth in many countries in the Middle East is weak and depressed.
Recently, the world's largest single photovoltaic power station, Eldavra photovoltaic power station, was completed in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates.
The plant produces enough electricity to power 200,000 homes each year and will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2.4 million metric tons.
This project once again demonstrates the determination of the UAE, an oil and gas rich Gulf state, to diversify its energy and green development.
Saudi Arabia ’ s Vision 2030, which aims to move away from dependence on oil revenues and diversify its growth, is gradually turning from a blueprint into a reality.
According to a recent IMF report, Saudi Arabia is in a period of strong economic growth and is in good financial condition.
At the same time, other countries in the region, such as Egypt, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria and Iran, suffered from sharp currency devaluations, high inflation and soaring unemployment.
The exchange rate of the Lebanese pound, the Egyptian pound, the Turkish lira and other Middle Eastern countries has reached record lows against the US dollar.
In addition, the new round of Palestinian-Israeli conflict has hit the economies of Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Iran and other neighboring countries hard.
Forecasts released by the World Bank in October show that economic growth in West Asia and North Africa is expected to decline sharply in 2023, from 6% in 2022 to around 1.9%.
Zhao Jun, associate professor of the Middle East Research Institute of Shanghai Foreign Studies University, believes that due to factors such as low oil prices leading to oil production cuts, global financial environment tension, sustained interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve, and the continued price rise of commodities and raw materials such as food due to the Ukrainian crisis, coupled with local turmoil continues, the economic downturn in many countries in the Middle East is unlikely to be reversed in a short time.
(Editor: Liu Ye Ting, Xu Xiangli)
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UAE Shams 1 solar thermal plant supports 50% clean energy target.

Saudi Vision 2030 aims 15,000 MW renewables 2022-23, 50% gas/renewables by 2030.

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Content: Events Schedule
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Editorial Team
26 June 2024
It has a capacity of 5,500 megawatts.
Saudi Energy Purchasing Company signs agreements for three solar energy projects
Saudi Power Purchase Company (SPPC), “the main buyer ”, in the presence of Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Energy, has signed power purchase agreements for three new solar PV projects, with the alliance of ACWA Power, BADIL Water and Electricity Holding Company, owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Aramco Power Company, owned by Saudi Aramco.
The projects, with a total capacity of 5,500 MW, are part of the National Renewable Energy Program, which is being implemented by the Ministry of Energy.
These projects include an incubator project in the Makkah region, with a capacity of 2,000 MW, at a cost of electricity production of 1.58762 cents per kilowatt-hour (5.95356 halalas per kilowatt-hour), and a project in the Makkah region, with a capacity of 2,000 MW, and a cost of electricity production of 1.60852 cents per kilowatt-hour (6.03194 halalas). per kilowatt-hour. ”
In addition to the Khashibi project in the Qassim region, with a capacity of 1,500 MW, and a cost of electricity production of 1.67289 cents per kilowatt-hour (6.27334 halalat per kilowatt-hour).
It is noteworthy that the Kingdom will annually, starting this year, 2024, projects to produce electricity from renewable energy, with a capacity of 20 gigawatts, to reach between 100 and 130 gigawatts by 2030, depending on the growth of electricity demand.
Since the inception of the NREP to date, 21 renewable energy projects with a total capacity exceeding 19 GW have been awarded, of which 7 projects with a total capacity of 4.1 GW have been connected to the grid, 8 projects with a total capacity of 8.2 GW are under construction, and 6 projects with a total capacity of 7 GW are in the financial closure phase.
In addition to these projects, since the beginning of 2024, six other projects with a total capacity of 6.7 GW have been launched.
This year ’ s plan also includes additional projects to achieve the interim target of 20 GW of renewable energy projects this year.
The projects of the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) aim to contribute to the optimal energy mix for the production of electricity and the displacement of liquid fuels used in the electricity production sector and other sectors in the Kingdom, as part of the energy system ’ s work towards achieving the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030.
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Content: Local Economic News
Awarding and Signing of Power Purchase Agreements for Al Rass and Sa ’ ad Solar PV Projects
The Ministry of Energy has launched the Al Ras and Sa ’ ad solar PV projects, with a total capacity of 1,000 MW, in the presence of Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy.
On the same occasion, the Saudi Power Purchase Company (SPIC) signed two power purchase agreements with the two winning consortia, the first for the Al Ras Solar PV project in the Qassim region, with Al Ras Solar Company, which is owned by the International Water and Energy Business Company (ACWA Power), SPIC, and the Water and Electricity Holding Company (WEHC).
The production capacity of the project is 700 megawatts, while the volume of investment is about 1.7 billion riyals, and the cost of purchasing electricity is 5.62 halals / kWh.
The second agreement is for the Sa ’ ad solar PV project, located in Sa ’ ad in Ramah governorate in Riyadh, with Ghazala Power Company, which is owned by the consortium of Genco Power (Hong Kong) Limited, Genco Power Middle East Holding and Genco Power Dhafra Holding. The investment in the project is approximately 800 million riyals, with a production capacity of 300 megawatts and an electricity purchase cost of 5.56 ha. / kWh.
On this occasion, the Minister of Energy announced that the energy system aims to launch projects to produce approximately 15,000 megawatts of electricity from renewable energy during the years 2022 and 2023, as part of the quest to achieve the targeted energy within the optimal energy mix used to produce electricity.
The Minister of Energy, in a statement, praised the support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and his sound guidance in all fields that achieve benefits to the homeland and citizens.
He also praised the support of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and his essential role in empowering the energy sector, and his directives that led to raising the level of ambitions, explaining that these projects represent a practical application, on the ground, of the Kingdom ’ s Vision 2030, which contributes to reaching the optimal energy mix, and the Kingdom ’ s transition from liquid fuel consumption in electricity production to gas and renewable energy. Milestones in the energy sector.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman explained that the awarding of these two projects and the signing of purchase agreements are distinct steps towards further advancing the achievements of the National Renewable Energy Program, and a tangible manifestation of the Kingdom ’ s commitment to reducing emissions from the production and use of energy, and its keenness, at the same time, to establish the rules of the circular carbon economy.
It also represents practical steps towards achieving a number of strategic objectives of the Kingdom ’ s Vision 2030, for the energy system as a whole, and for the electricity sector, in particular, noting that the exploitation of renewable energy sources is an important part of the quest to reach the optimal energy mix used in the production of electricity, which aims to make the share of gas and renewable energy sources in this mix about 50% each by 2030. Liquid fuels are consumed daily as fuel in electricity production, water desalination and other sectors.
The completion of these and other projects and linking them to the national grid will contribute to strengthening the Kingdom ’ s capacity to produce electricity to meet the national need, enhance the reliability of the electrical grid, and support the Kingdom ’ s ambitious plans to become a major country in the field of electricity production using renewable energy.
The two projects will contribute to the energy needs of more than 180,000 homes, as well as reducing one million seven hundred and fifty thousand tons of carbon emissions annually, and the Ministry of Energy is launching all renewable energy projects in accordance with the Independent Production System (IPP), as these projects are supported by 25-year agreements with the Saudi Power Purchase Company.
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Editorial Team
April 14, 2024
Saudi Arabia and the Carbon Dilemma
Saudi Arabia has adopted a multi-pronged approach to addressing the carbon crisis by contributing effectively to the impacts of climate change and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and has developed many ambitious initiatives and programs that are beginning to bear fruit.
The Saudi Green Initiative is one of the leading initiatives through which the Kingdom seeks to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030, and the Kingdom is committed to managing 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources, reaching zero neutrality in 2060.
Saudi Arabia has come a long way in achieving its targets by starting solar and wind power plants in several regions where renewable energy sources in Saudi Arabia offer promising opportunities for the growth of the sector as current renewable energy projects can provide electricity to more than 520,000 homes currently.
Saudi Arabia seeks to achieve the optimal energy mix to produce electricity from the Kingdom ’ s abundant natural resources, with a total capacity of 2,800 MW of renewable energy sources used, while the total capacity of renewable energy projects under development is more than 8,000 MW, and the total capacity of four highly efficient gas-fired power plants is 6,500 MW.
Through these initiatives and other ambitious programs, Saudi Arabia will be able, God willing, to achieve and exceed its goals through the implementation of ambitious vision programs, the development of mobility and living methods, the enhancement of quality of life, the humanization of cities, and the expansion of environmental initiatives and the green economy.
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Saudi Ministry of Energy signed 2 solar PPAs totaling 1,000 MW.

Saudi Power Company signed 3 solar PV projects totaling 5,500 MW.

Saudi Green Initiative will cut 278M tonnes CO2 by 2030, 50% renewables by 2060.

Oman Vision 2040 includes 607 MW Abu Bari solar PV, cuts 340k t CO2.

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Content: To enable Oman Vision 2040, PowerChina sets new standards in renewable energy through the Oman Ibri Solar PV Project
BEIJING, Dec. 22, 2022 / PRNewswire / — Report from haiwainet.cn:
According to a recent World Government Summit report, Oman, Jordan, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Algeria and Morocco have topped the list in achieving 60% of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Oman is promoting global cooperation in renewable energy following the launch of Oman Vision 2040.
In January 2022, Oman ’ s largest renewable energy project, the Oman Ibri Solar PV Project, implemented by PowerChina, was completed.
As the largest solar PV project in Oman at present, it has a installed capacity of 607 MW and annual power generation of 1,598 GWh, which could cover the annual electricity consumption of 50,000 local households.
It is important to secure energy supply and diversify Oman ’ s energy structure.
The construction of a large-scale photovoltaic power plant in the desert needs to take into account not only summer extremes, but also complex geological conditions and dust storm weather.
During the storm, a thick layer of dust will accumulate on the photovoltaic panels, reducing the efficiency of power generation.
To deal with the dust storm, the project team made a groundbreaking attempt – installing intelligent cleaning robots on the panels.
The cleaning robots will automatically clean the dust covered on the panels.
This project combines photoelectric tracking system and automatic cleaning system for the first time, greatly improves power generation efficiency and reduces operation and maintenance costs, and sets new standards for large-scale power plant operation and maintenance in the Middle East.
PowerChina has obtained 41 patents for inventions and utility models, completed one study, and published 8 scientific reports through this project.
At the same time, the clean energy produced by the Oman Ibri solar PV project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 340,000 tons per year, contributing positively to addressing climate change and achieving carbon neutrality.

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Content: Oman - In order to attract foreign investments, enhance environmental initiatives, and develop renewable and clean energy projects to achieve environmental targets and aspirations at the national level and contribute to the realization of Oman Vision 2040 and the goal of zero emissions by 2050, as well as to achieve global goals in this regard and meet the growing demand for renewable energy projects to keep pace with consumption growth; the Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) signed an electricity connection agreement with United Solar on March 11, 2024. The signing ceremony took place at the Sohar Port and Free Zone in the Wilayat of Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate, under the auspices of Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance, and in the presence of several dignitaries, representatives of various government and private entities.

The ceremony included the signing of several agreements with relevant and specialized entities such as the Oman Electricity Transmission Company, Nama Supply, Sohar Port, and the Free Zone, in an investment totaling over RO 520 million. The cornerstone was laid for the polysilicon factory project in North Al Batinah Governorate, the first of its kind in the Middle East with an annual production capacity of 100,000 tonnes. The project is expected to be inaugurated in the first quarter of 2025.

Eng Saleh al Rumhi, OETC’s CEO, emphasised the company's keen interest in such projects and its ongoing efforts to invest and contribute to the success of renewable energy related projects. He also highlighted OETC’s commitment to developing infrastructure for large projects, improving the business environment to attract more investments, and continuing to work together with other entities to achieve the national visions, targets, and aspirations.

Al Rumhi added, "We always prioritize national visions, with Oman Vision 2040 at the forefront of our priorities, through all the projects, initiatives, and activities undertaken by OETC. Therefore, the company is diligently working on signing collaboration agreements and supporting various large-scale projects that align with its nature of work. We also focus on green energy projects and renewable energy, as Oman is blessed with inexhaustible resources in clean energy such as wind and solar power. These energies will contribute to achieving the goal of zero carbon emissions in Oman by 2050. Additionally, we believe in the added local value of such projects in terms of job opportunities, purchasing local materials, and developing local community and serving them as it should."

OETC, a member of Nama Group, is the only company responsible for the transmission and control of electricity across the Sultanate of Oman’s network. The electricity is transmitted from production stations to distributed load centers in the governorates. The transmission network operates at a voltage of 132kV and above to cover most of the governorates in the Sultanate of Oman, whether in the north or the south. Furthermore, OETC manages the interconnection lines between Oman and the GCC interconnection network, which operates at a voltage of 220kV.

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Oman OETC polysilicon factory will produce 100k tonnes annually, first in Middle East.

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Morocco wind capacity reached 1.2 GW in 2019.

Egypt Benban Solar Park is world’s largest PV plant, 42% renewables by 2035.

Egypt Zafarana Wind Farm is one of Africa’s largest wind farms.

Bahrain Ministry of Agriculture promotes solar on farms to cut electricity bills.

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Content: Saudi News
Al Hawaj: We support the efforts of farmers to benefit from solar energy in their farms
Mohammed bin Masoud - Dammam - 2022-04-09T16: 38: 36.870 + 03: 00
The Undersecretary of Agriculture and Marine Resources at the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, Eng. Ibrahim Hassan Al-Hawaj, welcomed the proposal submitted by the Bahrain Agricultural Cooperative Society, which aims to benefit from solar energy on farms.
This came during a meeting with Eng. Al-Hawaj in the presence of the Assistant Undersecretary for Agriculture Affairs Dr. Abdulaziz Mohammed Abdulkarim and the Director of Plant Wealth Department Eng. Hussain Jawad Al-Laith, in his office in Badie with a delegation from the Bahrain Agricultural Cooperative Society headed by the President of the Society Mohammed Mohsen Ali.
Al-Hawaj explained that the introduction of solar energy within the agricultural production processes in the farms will reduce the value of the electricity bill and achieve a saving rate in the normal electricity consumption bill, which will have positive repercussions on the agricultural sector and serve as a supplement to support Bahraini farmers.
He stressed that the Agency of Agriculture and Marine Resources will spare no effort to provide various possible means of support to achieve this on the ground and according to the available capabilities and in coordination with the relevant official authorities, which supports official efforts to introduce clean technologies and promote the use of solar energy in various sectors.
During the meeting, Al-Hawaj discussed with the Society ’ s delegation ways to support farmers and promote workers in this sector, which is relied upon to achieve official trends in achieving sustainable food security for the Kingdom of Bahrain.
He stressed that the Agency is continuing to take steps to implement the directives of His Majesty the King in his speech at the opening of the second session of the fifth legislative term of the House of Representatives, after which the implementation of the national strategy for food security was launched through four main pillars: developing national capacities in the field of food industries, building infrastructure capable of simulating future goals in the field of food security, achieving self-sufficiency and providing incentives and facilities. Encourage the private sector to invest in food security as a key partner in this strategy.
Al-Hawaj said that the support of Bahraini farmers comes from the directives and continuous follow-up of the Minister of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning, Eng. Essam bin Abdullah Khalaf, and is at the heart of the Agency ’ s interest, pointing out that the Agency continues to develop initiatives and programs to promote this sector and maximize its contribution to the food security strategy of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
He stressed that the Agency continues to provide support to farmers to benefit from modern technologies in agriculture, which is a priority in doubling agricultural production and reducing costs as much as possible, which will have a positive impact on this sector.
During the meeting, Al-Hawaj listened to the comments and suggestions of the Society ’ s delegation to support the farmers and the challenges they face, and promised to study these needs and consider achieving them according to the available capabilities, stressing that the doors of the Agency are open to receive any observations or suggestions that would improve the support and services provided by the Agricultural and Marine Resources Agency to Bahraini farmers.
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Bahrain tender for 72 MW rooftop solar PV plant supports carbon zero by 2060.

Title:

Content: Bahrain Ministry of Electricity and Water launches tender for 72 MW solar power plant
MANAMA, Kingdom of Bahrain, August 18, 2022 / PRNewswire / — The Kingdom of Bahrain today launched a public tender to appoint a local or international company on a 20-year contract to build, own, operate and maintain a solar photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of at least 72 MW in multiple buildings in Sakhir in the south of the Kingdom.
Through the tender, the Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs is seeking to build a solar power plant to cover the energy needs of the Bahrain International Circuit, the University of Bahrain, the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre and Al Dana Theatre.
The solar panel station will be built on rooftops, parking lot umbrellas, electric vehicle charging stations, as well as allotted land in these facilities.
To qualify for this tender, bidders must have experience in the solar PV business and have successfully implemented at least 10 solar PV grid-connected projects, with a minimum of 5 projects in solar (PV) parking lots.
In addition, bidders must have worked on solar PV projects connected to the electricity grid with a capacity of at least 40 MW in any country globally in the past three years. (2019-2021)
H.E. Mr. Yasser bin Ibrahim Humaidan, Minister of Electricity and Water Affairs, said: “The launch of this tender is part of the Kingdom ’ s vision to adopt a circular carbon economy and to reduce Bahrain ’ s carbon emissions to zero by 2060, as part of the Kingdom ’ s commitment to this goal as part of its national commitments to protect the environment and combat the effects of climate change.
As emphasized in the Economic Recovery Plan, Bahrain aims through its development projects to achieve sustainable economic development for citizens who are the focus and purpose of development. ”
The Kingdom ’ s economic recovery plan adopts strategic development projects worth more than US $30 billion, creating new investment opportunities in infrastructure and priority sectors. When planning these projects, Bahrain adheres to the best international standards necessary to ensure the reduction of negative impacts on the environment and ensure sustainability.
Bidders can obtain tender documents and submit bids through the Tender and Bid Board website at the following link:
https: / / www.tenderboard.gov.bh / TenderDetails /? id = 546 / 2022 / BTB% 20 (MEWA / NREAP / BUND / P2 / 2022))
For more information, please contact:
Eng. Abduljabbar Abdulkareem
Acting General Manager of Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy Advisor
Tel: + 97317799717
Email: Ajabbar.akarim @ sea.gov.bh or Abduljabbar.
abdulkarim @ ewa.bh

GCC ministers pledge to triple renewable capacity by 2030, reaffirm UNFCCC commitment.

Title:

Content: GCC confirms commitment to the principles and provisions of the Framework Convention on Climate Change
Monday ، 09 October 2023 02: 03 AM
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
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The GCC Climate Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the principles and provisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, and the importance of encouraging efforts to triple global renewable energy production through existing targets and policies, as well as achieving such a ratio in other low-emission and zero-emission technologies, including source emission control and removal technologies, in line with national conditions by 2030.
The Saudi Press Agency said that this came in the final statement issued on Sunday evening by the ministerial meeting of ministers concerned with the file of climate change held in the Saudi capital Riyadh on the sidelines of the Climate Week in the Middle East and North Africa.
The statement thanked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for hosting the Middle East and North Africa Climate Week and for hosting this ministerial meeting, as well as the Arab Republic of Egypt for successfully hosting COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, and we look forward to another successful meeting in the United Arab Emirates.
The statement also affirmed full support for the UAE ’ s hosting of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28).
Praising the four pillars of the conference: (1) accelerating a fair, equitable and responsible energy transition and emissions reduction before 2030; (2) transforming climate finance by delivering on existing promises and developing a framework for a new consensus on finance; (3) putting nature, people and livelihoods at the heart of climate action; and (4) mobilizing for an inclusive Conference of the Parties. on climate change, the Paris Agreement, and regional and national circumstances and priorities.
The ministerial statement also stressed the need for a step-by-step approach to achieve the objectives of the Paris Agreement, including mitigation of emissions, based on realistic foundations that take into account differentiation and different national circumstances, and recognize the importance of different available solutions and technologies.
The statement stressed that achieving zero carbon neutrality requires the use of all solutions including the latest scientific developments, various approaches including the circular carbon economy approach, socio-economic development and technologies, maturing markets, and promoting more efficient solutions in line with different national circumstances.
The statement stressed the principles of the climate agreements, namely the principle of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and the consideration of each party ’ s capabilities, in light of different national circumstances, is the basis for the implementation of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement, and the principle of the right of developing countries to sustainable development and economic diversification, taking into account the impacts of climate change policy responses.
Energy transformations have three equally important pillars for achieving logical, practical and progressive transformations: energy security, economic development and climate change.
He added that due to the diversity of sources of emissions, it is important to include all solutions and technologies to face climate change and its effects and invest in them such as renewable energy and storage, energy efficiency, hydrogen, carbon capture, storage and reuse, nature-based decarbonization solutions, and carbon capture from the air.
They stressed the importance of the international community avoiding the exclusion of major energy sources or neglecting investment in them, which leads to challenges in energy markets and a disproportionate impact, especially on developing societies and countries, and the need to adopt a "balanced approach" to promote global economic growth closely linked to energy security and availability, by benefiting from various energy sources and working to achieve a transition to clean energy in a practical, gradual and fair manner.
It is also important to take a comprehensive approach to climate change that focuses on all dimensions including mitigation, adaptation, financing, capacity-building and technology transfer.
The GCC states are developing countries with their own environmental and climatic conditions, including rising sea levels, rising temperatures, water scarcity, desertification, sandstorms, flash floods, hurricanes, land degradation, the challenges of afforestation, loss of biodiversity and ecosystems and their impact on public health and food security. A continuation of the programme at COP 28, and the importance of completing the work of the Global Adaptation Goal.
We also stress the need to prepare and plan for adaptation to 1.5 and higher temperatures.
The statement also reaffirmed the commitment to the Paris Agreement that climate finance and financing for implementation are the responsibility of developed countries and there is no responsibility of developing countries.
We also stress the importance of meeting the pledge of US $100 billion annually by developed countries from 2020 to support developing countries, and making progress towards the new quantitative collective target for increased climate finance.
We look forward to ambitious outcomes on operationalizing the LDCF at COP 28 in accordance with the principles of the Paris Agreement.
The statement also affirmed the GCC ’ s commitment to an ambitious and fair outcome of the GST process to assess progress in the implementation of the Paris Agreement ’ s objectives and implementation mechanisms, through the UAE ’ s hosting of COP28, which will send comprehensive policy messages on the need to accelerate work and cooperation to achieve the Paris Agreement ’ s objectives, including renewable energy technologies, reduction and elimination.
The statement stressed the need to address the impacts of response measures resulting from mitigation actions, as well as our commitment to pursue and emphasize the importance of the global goal of adaptation, and call on developed countries to overcome gaps in support of adaptation, climate finance, capacity building, and technology transfer in line with the needs and priorities of developing countries.
Outputs must maintain and operationalize the principle of common but differentiated responsibility and differentiated capacities for the further implementation of the Convention.
We reaffirm our commitment to play a constructive role in strengthening international cooperation and effective partnerships to support accelerated mitigation and adaptation in support of achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The statement issued by the GCC Climate Ministers Meeting praised the role of youth in our societies and their contribution in leading efforts to address climate change, where youth have an important role in the Climate Week in the Middle East and North Africa region, and the 28th Conference of the Parties, where it is important for young people to have an active role in these vital paths for their future.
The statement stressed the importance of cooperation between the GCC countries in the development and implementation of various climate solutions, especially those that suit the needs of the region through international and regional initiatives such as the Green Middle East Initiative, the Crimean Climate Alliance and other initiatives, calling for supporting the initiatives of COP 28, which will be considered as a legacy of the leadership role of the GCC countries.
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GCC solar PV cost falls below 2¢/kWh, cheaper than gas and LNG.

Title:

Content: IRENA offers great opportunities for GCC leadership in the renewable energy sector
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The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has confirmed that the GCC countries have great opportunities to become a leading global hub for renewable energy, climate action and economic diversification.
In a report entitled “Renewable Energy Markets: GCC 2023 ”, the agency highlighted the opportunities for GCC countries to use their existing resources to develop innovative renewable energy solutions that contribute to reducing the impact of climate change, diversify their economies, create new jobs and reduce the environmental impact of the energy sector.
As the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) takes place in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, in Dubai, the new IRENA report is a resource for policymakers, business and society to tap into the region ’ s vast potential from this renewable energy resource.
Solar PV is now the least expensive option to produce energy in the GCC at less than $2 per kilowatt-hour, outpacing the cost of generating power using natural gas, liquefied natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear. Low generation costs and abundant solar and wind resources in the region open the door to adopting innovative energy technologies to produce resources such as green hydrogen competitively.
Francesco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), said: “The GCC region has a unique opportunity to maintain its leading role in the international energy market as the world enters a new energy era, and this momentum is growing in the region as the GCC countries develop ambitious renewable energy and hydrogen strategies and continue to implement their zero-emission commitments.
La Camera added: Renewable energy sources have become cost-effective in the GCC. Very successful achievements have brought solar PV prices to record levels globally, enhancing their economic viability and paving the way for the inclusion of large shares of renewable energy sources in the electricity mix.
To translate ambitious goals into reality on the ground, more sustained action is needed.
Production Capabilities
The report highlights the significant increase in renewable energy production capacity in the GCC, from 176 megawatts in 2013 to more than 5.6 gigawatts in 2022.
However, renewables still represent a small fraction of the region ’ s electricity generation capacity, while energy end-uses continue to rely on fossil fuels.
Public investments in infrastructure and value chains can stimulate and enable the deployment of renewable energy while enhancing the benefits associated with it.
The report stresses the importance of building on existing energy infrastructure, including the promotion of regional connectivity and infrastructure development to support the deployment of renewable energy sources in end-uses such as transportation.
The report emphasizes that GCC countries have an opportunity to play a greater role in achieving global energy and sustainability goals, both domestically and internationally.
The report concludes that GCC countries are well positioned, in addition to continuing their efforts at national levels, to support the energy transition in developing countries through joint international investments in renewable energy.
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GCC solar PV capacity grew from 176 MW in 2013 to >5.6 GW in 2022.

GCC energy transition pillars are energy security, economic development, and climate change.