The Middle East, long defined by its abundant oil reserves, is undergoing a substantial energy transition as regional leaders accelerate investment in solar energy to prepare for a post-oil world.

Driven by climate imperatives, market diversification, and economic modernization, countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco are developing some of the world’s most ambitious solar projects and renewable energy policies.

Key National Projects

Across the region, utility-scale solar developments have become central to national strategies.

The UAE hosts several regional landmarks, notably the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, which targets a capacity of 5 gigawatts (GW), and the 2 GW Al Dhafra Solar Project.

In Egypt, the Benban Solar Park in Aswan, with a planned capacity of 1.8 GW, will be one of the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) installations once completed.

Morocco has put itself at the forefront of concentrated solar power (CSP) with the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, currently the largest CSP facility globally and instrumental in Morocco’s strategy to source 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030.

Saudi Arabia is pursuing several gigawatt-class initiatives under its Vision 2030 strategy, including the Neom project, which features “The Line”—a planned carbon-neutral city entirely powered by renewables.

Jordan, despite limited hydrocarbons, was an early mover, launching solar adoption in 2012 and fostering private investment through incentives and policy reform.

These flagship projects serve both as visible markers of ambition and as foundational elements for much broader renewable system integration.

Current Solar Capacity and Growth Trends

Solar energy capacity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is rising rapidly, with a 23% year-on-year increase in 2023.

Solar power, however, only accounts for just over 2% of the region’s current energy mix, indicating significant room for expansion.

Countries such as the UAE now lead the region with installed solar capacity at 2.6 GW, followed by Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan.

The region benefits from excellent solar resources, with annual irradiation typically above 2,000 kWh/m², supporting the economic viability of large-scale solar deployment.

Cumulative Arab investment in renewable projects (excluding hydropower) reached $15 billion over the past decade, resulting in around 7.2 GW of new capacity.

Arab nations plan to add over 73 GW of new solar and wind projects by 2030—a five-fold increase from current levels.

Looking ahead, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Morocco are expected to provide the majority of a projected 62 GW regional increase in renewable capacity by 2028, with solar PV accounting for more than 85% of that growth.

Dedicated action on green hydrogen production is emerging in several countries, leveraging abundant solar resources and existing port infrastructure to target export markets.

Government Incentives and Policy Support

Governments across the Middle East are implementing policies and incentives designed to accelerate renewable energy, particularly solar.

National targets are ambitious, with the UAE aiming for 50% clean energy by 2050, Morocco 52% renewables by 2030, and Saudi Arabia and its neighbors increasing their commitments through comprehensive vision plans (Saudi Vision 2030, UAE Net Zero by 2050, Oman Vision 2040).

Specific policy measures include direct financial incentives, such as lowering electricity costs for renewable consumers in Jordan, green finance schemes, and long-term power purchase agreements to de-risk investment.

Regional engagement in global climate processes—such as pledges made at COP28, with commitments to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030—further reinforce government resolve.

In addition, regulatory reforms to facilitate private sector participation, fast-track permitting, and support for grid integration are boosting both utility-scale and distributed solar uptake.

Early adopters like Jordan applied incentives and policy reforms as early as 2012, resulting in rapid solar growth and significant emissions reductions.

Economic and Climate Impacts

The transition to solar and wider renewables has substantial implications for both economies and climate objectives in the Middle East.

On the economic front, investments in clean energy are designed to promote diversification, reduce dependence on oil revenues, and build future-facing industries such as green hydrogen.

The cumulative investment required for the region to realize its clean energy ambitions is estimated at $1 trillion by 2040.

This activity is creating new employment opportunities, both temporary (e.g., construction jobs for large projects) and permanent (in operations, maintenance, and supporting services).

It is also fostering a more diversified digital economy, as countries invest in innovative technologies like AI and smart grids for efficient system management.

For climate goals, solar adoption directly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel generation.

Improvements in local air quality, especially in urban centers, and progress towards national decarbonization targets are notable outcomes.

The region’s embrace of large-scale renewables also positions it as a potential exporter of clean energy or energy-intensive green products, aligning near-term economic modernization with climate priorities.

Conclusion

The Middle East’s energy transition, while in its early phases relative to overall consumption, is gathering momentum through some of the world’s largest solar projects and increasingly ambitious national policies.

Significant strides have been made in countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco, reflecting a paradigm shift towards renewables both for economic resilience and climate policy alignment.

With renewable capacity set to increase several-fold by 2030, supported by robust financial, policy, and regulatory frameworks, the region is positioned to play a leading role in the global clean energy landscape for decades to come.

However, accelerating grid integration, maintaining investment flows, and scaling up deployment will be essential for these nations to fully realize their energy transition goals and global climate commitments.

The Middle East, long defined by its abundant oil reserves, is undergoing a substantial energy transition as regional leaders accelerate investment in solar energy to prepare for a post-oil world.

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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

Driven by climate imperatives, market diversification, and economic modernization, countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco are developing some of the world’s most ambitious solar projects and renewable energy policies.

Key National Projects

Across the region, utility-scale solar developments have become central to national strategies.

Title:

Content: New technologies to achieve sustainability goals and address climate change
Science and Technology
Huawei
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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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The UAE hosts several regional landmarks, notably the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, which targets a capacity of 5 gigawatts (GW), and the 2 GW Al Dhafra Solar Project.

Title:

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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In Egypt, the Benban Solar Park in Aswan, with a planned capacity of 1.8 GW, will be one of the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) installations once completed.

Morocco has put itself at the forefront of concentrated solar power (CSP) with the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, currently the largest CSP facility globally and instrumental in Morocco’s strategy to source 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030.

Saudi Arabia is pursuing several gigawatt-class initiatives under its Vision 2030 strategy, including the Neom project, which features “The Line”—a planned carbon-neutral city entirely powered by renewables.

Jordan, despite limited hydrocarbons, was an early mover, launching solar adoption in 2012 and fostering private investment through incentives and policy reform.

These flagship projects serve both as visible markers of ambition and as foundational elements for much broader renewable system integration.

Current Solar Capacity and Growth Trends

Solar energy capacity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is rising rapidly, with a 23% year-on-year increase in 2023.

Title:

Content: Sunday, 24 September 2023 02: 03 GMT
2030 Arab Goal to Advance Renewable Energy Capabilities Globally
(MENAFN- Al-Bayan) $(resize) .css ('font-size', newFontSize); return false;});});
Several Arab countries are accelerating to keep pace with the international aspiration to achieve the goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030, which is receiving widespread attention, amid various plans and strategies at national levels in many countries.
The Arab countries that are likely to play the largest role in this regard, according to industry experts, are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria and Morocco, by injecting more investments into this vital and promising sector.
During the recent G20 summit in New Delhi in September, G20 leaders expressed their support for all efforts to increase renewable energy capacity and pledged to accelerate measures to address environmental crises and challenges.
With this growing international interest in the energy transition, the plans are facing many challenges, including (but not limited to) access to finance, especially for low- and middle-income countries, with significant investment required over the coming years.
(Al-Bayan), a group of American academics and specialists in the renewable energy sector were surveyed about the main opportunities and challenges on the way to increase the desired capacity, the investments required to achieve that goal, and the extent of its expected environmental and economic repercussions.
Huge spikes.
Achieving the ambitious goal of doubling global renewable energy capacity in the near term will be reflected concretely in several contexts, explains Gregory Nemet, a specialist in the analysis of international energy systems and environmental policies at the University of Wisconsin. By 2030, it will deliver significant benefits in terms of jobs, economic development, and improved air quality, as well as putting the world on the path to addressing climate change in the long term.
“The costs of renewable energy, especially solar and wind, have dropped dramatically over the last 10 years, and most experts expect them to continue to fall, ” says Nemet, explaining that a clean, affordable source of energy creates huge opportunities, allowing global renewable energy capacity to be tripled by taking full advantage of it.
According to Nemet, the 3-fold increase also presents challenges, such as “access to finance for low- and middle-income countries, and investments in electricity grids to accommodate this growth ”, stressing that“ challenges can be overcome through sustained efforts and supportive policies, as we have seen many examples in the recent past. ” A sign of broad international cooperation is required in this regard.
Last year, renewable energy capacity (globally) increased by 9.6 percent to 3,372 gigawatts, an increase of a record 295 gigawatts, despite global uncertainty in light of geopolitical developments and the Ukrainian war, according to data published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on March 22.
Almost half of the new capacity from renewable energy in Asia has been added, with China contributing more than 141 gigawatts to the new capacity of the entire continent.
Renewable energy sources in Europe and the United States grew by 57.3 gigawatts and 29.1 gigawatts respectively.
African capacity increased slightly by 2.7 gigawatts.
According to IRENA data, although hydropower accounts for the largest share of total global renewable energy capacity at 1,250 gigawatts, solar and wind power continue to dominate new capacity, contributing 90% of total capacity last year.
Solar capacity came first with an increase of 22%, followed by wind power with an increase of 9%.
Policies and Incentives
University of Massachusetts academic David Turcotte, whose research interests include climate change and environmental justice, believes that there are many opportunities in the context of increasing global renewable energy capacity, due to increases in oil prices as a result of the Ukrainian crisis, which makes renewable energy sources more cost-effective, as well as worsening economic and human costs. Recurrent, more severe climate change disasters.
“Many developed countries have expanded policies and incentives to encourage increased capacity to produce renewable energy.
However, we still face a lot of challenges […]
That threatens to derail efforts to increase renewable energy capacity, and the transition to a clean energy economy.
Among these challenges is the lack of adequate funding to support increases in renewable energy capacity in developing countries, a challenge he described as “serious. ”
While international efforts are accelerating to target investments in the context of increasing global renewable energy capacity, those investments are still below the 1.5 ° C target.
This is shown by data from IRENA and the Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) released in February, which estimate the total volume of investments in renewable energy sectors during 2022 at $499 billion, up from $430 billion in the previous year 2021.
Developments in the world over the past year, especially with the start of the Russian military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, have also encouraged many countries to move more towards renewable energy sources, to overcome the energy crisis caused by the consequences of the war, in the interest of the desired goal of increasing capacity.
Required investments
John Hall, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Center for Energy Production and Infrastructure, University of North Carolina, United States, notes that “the goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030 is a challenge, and achieving the goal requires an intensive global strategy, focused on significant financial investment, technological innovation targeting these communities, inclusive policies, and collaborative efforts. ”
Speaking with Al-Bayan, he stressed that community participation and infrastructure development in underserved areas should be central to the strategy, leading not only to the promotion of the energy transition, but also to economic upgrading.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that $4 trillion per year will be required in the clean energy sector until 2030 to strengthen global capacity in this regard.
Logistical challenges
Warren Mabey, an academic at Queen ’ s University who specialises in energy policy and natural resource management, told Al Bayan that “it is technically possible to triple global renewable energy capacity over the next six years, and this will put enormous pressure on the global supply chains that support the sector. and manufactured goods, necessary for the transformation process).
Mabe believes that “the cost will be enormous, and the logistical challenge may be too great to overcome ”, stressing the need for“ strong and consistent leadership from countries around the world to achieve this. ”
Arabic Steps
At the Arab level, five Arab countries (Egypt, Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) are expected to account for about 72% of the region ’ s total growth in renewable energy, according to the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), which expects renewable energy capacity to reach 45 gigawatts by 2027, an increase of 3 times. Compared to the last five years.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that in 2022, the Middle East saw the highest increase in renewables ever, with 3.2 gigawatts of new capacity added last year, a 12.8 percent increase over the previous year.
According to the Arab Renewable Energy Authority (AREA), the volume of investments by Arab countries in renewable energy projects is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2040, in light of the interest of Arab governments in this file, to achieve global environmental goals.
A Great Leap in 10 Years
According to the current data, the renewable energy sector in the region is expected to witness a huge leap in the next 10 years, at a time when eight Arab countries are leading this trend, according to the researcher in international relations and political economy, Abu Bakr al-Deeb, adviser to the Arab Center for Studies and Research, who tells Al-Bayan that the countries strongly candidate to move in this direction are:, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan, Algeria and Morocco).
Aldeeb also cites the volume of electricity generated from renewable sources in the Middle East and Arab countries, which is expected to increase six-fold in 10 years through heavy reliance on solar photovoltaic energy, noting that the Arab region has “great potential ” to help launch major projects to produce energy from the sun. And wind, among these possibilities or advantages (the right climate, the bright sun most days of the year, as well as human expertise, and financial capabilities also for some countries).
The UAE is at the top of the list of Arab countries that produce electricity from solar energy, while Egypt is the largest country in the Arab world in terms of electricity production from wind energy, according to a report issued by (Global Energy Monitor), which Al-Deeb cites when explaining the progress made by some Arab countries in this sector, The UAE, Egypt, Jordan and Morocco are among the first Arab countries to establish solar and wind power plants.
According to the report, renewable power plant projects for Arab countries are likely to achieve 92% of the region ’ s total target by 2030 when completed.
One of the most reliable projects in this regard is the Green Hydrogen projects, through which the Middle East is seeking global leadership, with export revenues likely to reach $200 billion by 2050 for the Gulf countries, according to a study by Dii Desert Energy.
In this context, Al-Deeb notes the abundance of renewable energy resources, clean hydrogen, human expertise, capital, and their geographical proximity to the European market, all of which provide them with important and growing opportunities.
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Solar power, however, only accounts for just over 2% of the region’s current energy mix, indicating significant room for expansion.

Title:

Content: General Supervision
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World Future Energy Summit.
Green finance and climate change lead day 2
The second day of the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in the UAE, kicked off today.
The summit is the premier annual forum for future energy and sustainability.
The day ’ s events focused on green finance, with Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, stressing the urgency of correcting climate change and thinking outside the box, and providing inspiring views on the obstacles to investing in renewable energy and ways to develop it during a session entitled “Financing Global Approaches to Low-Carbon Economies ”.
“It takes a lot of in-depth social studies, practical solutions and a lot of financial support – governments around the world spend a lot of money to defend themselves against other governments, but we don ’ t spend that much money to fight everyone ’ s first enemy, climate change.
He believes that finding practical solutions requires a serious approach to financing and establishing an assembly line for simple renewable energy projects, so that tangible results can be achieved as soon as possible, which is not possible without setting aside the side issues that usually concern us or we will not be able to solve the problem for another 10 years.
Ahmed Bahieldin, General Manager and Commercial Officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at GE Vernova, an independent public company spin-off of GE ’ s energy, wind and electricity business, also joined the panel.
“Time is an important factor, especially as there is a lot of capital looking for projects in advanced markets, especially in the areas of renewable energy sources and new technologies, and regulatory reforms and the structuring of the revenue model give more room for growth.
The second day of the summit also saw the launch of the Solar Outlook 2024 report, officially released by the Middle East Solar Industry Association at the World Future Energy Summit.
The report highlights the growing contribution of solar energy to the MENA region ’ s ongoing energy transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewables, amid continued manufacturing boom, population and economic growth, as well as concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability.
Solar Energy
According to the report, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region today has one of the highest levels of solar energy potential in the world, with countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and Egypt contributing on average annual solar radiation exceeding 2,000 kilowatt-hours per square meter per year.
While the regional solar growth trajectory is expected to continue, the report reveals that it is still well below the levels required to replace the current fossil fuel contribution of 87%, with solar providing just over 2% of the current energy mix in the MENA region.
Denisa Vines, Secretary General of the Middle East Solar Industry Association, said: “The COP28 pledge to increase renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency with the support of 124 countries has set ambitious targets to increase the deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures by 2030, but we still face many challenges to achieve these goals, especially in the energy sector within the Gulf region. After 2030, a variety of technologies are expected to be market-ready, offering scalable solutions to decarbonize the energy sector, enabling a more effective role for renewables, energy efficiency and zero-emission technologies.
The broad pursuit of ambitious targets by 2030 is focused on public utility projects, which may overshadow the needs of the commercial and industrial sectors, and this underscores the importance of considering a balanced approach to energy deployment to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.
COP28 Pledges
Speaking at the Solar and Clean Energy Conference, Dr. Ralph Blumenthal, Head of Networks Programs Middle East at Siemens, praised the ongoing discussions on digitization and the great importance of integrating renewables into smart grids to help achieve the goals of the COP28 pledge.
Batteries are key if we want to triple renewables by 2030, and increase them nine-fold by 2050. Batteries are not only storage, they are essential to grid regulation and reduce disruptions that may occur during renewable energy generation. Today, around 1,500 GW of renewable energy has been installed globally and is ready for deployment, but cannot be integrated into networks. It operates 100% on renewable energy, but national grids have not yet been able to effectively integrate renewables on a large scale.
Constructive discussions and sessions on global energy issues and solutions will continue tomorrow with the Electric Mobility Forum, which will comprehensively examine the role of clean and independent transport in changing the future of city design, and what is needed to unlock the potential of investing in expanding electric mobility.

Countries such as the UAE now lead the region with installed solar capacity at 2.6 GW, followed by Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan.

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Content: In numbers...
Arab countries race to double their renewable energy production by 2030
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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — (CNN) Arab countries are on track to grow their utility-scale wind and solar capacity by more than 500% by 2023, according to a report by Global Energy Monitor.
According to the report, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has enormous potential for large-scale wind and solar power projects because of its favorable climate and sunny weather for most of the year.
Arab countries are planning more than 73 gigawatts of utility-scale solar and wind projects, a more than fivefold increase in current capacity, which together with operational projects will account for 91% of the Arab League ’ s renewable energy goals for 2030.
The UAE is at the top of the list of Arab countries that produce the most electricity from solar energy, with solar plants producing 2.6 gigawatts of electricity.
Egypt is among the Arab countries that produce the most electricity from wind power at 1.6 gigawatts.
Egypt produces 1.9 gigawatts of electricity from solar power plants.
Egypt ’ s total electricity production from both places it at the top of the list of Arab countries with a production capacity of 3.5 gigawatts.
Thanks to its huge investments in solar electricity production, the UAE ranks second in wind and solar electricity production, followed by Morocco in third place with 1.9 GW and Jordan in fourth place with 1.7 GW.
While Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and Jordan are the first Arab countries to initiate wind and solar power plants, Oman, Algeria and Kuwait are poised to follow suit, ranking first in expected solar and wind power production in the near future.
Here are the top Arab countries in terms of the current operation of solar and wind energy on the scale of utilities and the capacity of wind and solar energy expected to be produced at the level of each country in the Arab region.

The region benefits from excellent solar resources, with annual irradiation typically above 2,000 kWh/m², supporting the economic viability of large-scale solar deployment.

Cumulative Arab investment in renewable projects (excluding hydropower) reached $15 billion over the past decade, resulting in around 7.2 GW of new capacity.

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Khaled Hanafi calls for Arab Chambers to join the World Trade Organization
The Secretary General of the Federation of Arab Chambers, Dr. Khaled Hanafi, participated in the general meetings of the World Trade Organization held in Geneva, Switzerland, during the period 12-15 September, under the title: "It is time to act", in the presence of ministerial and economic figures from all countries of the world.
The 2023 Public Forum explored how trade can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future, by facilitating trade access to environmental goods, services and technologies and maintaining the ambition to limit temperature rises to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.
During his visit, the Secretary General of the Union met with a number of officials from the World Trade Organization, where he raised the idea of   joining the Union of Arab Chambers to the World Trade Organization as the real representative of the Arab private sector.
The idea was initially supported by relevant WTO officials, with accession mechanisms to be put into effect.
He added that the accession of the Union of Arab Chambers to the World Trade Organization will have a positive impact on the Arab private sector, as the Union puts at the heart of its concerns since its establishment the priorities of enhancing inter-Arab trade and enhancing Arab trade with the rest of the world.
The Secretary-General of the Union participated in the 63rd session of the World Trade Organization meetings entitled: "Comprehensive policies to promote green trade: the role of the Arab private sector in saving the planet", on 14 September.
He delivered a speech at the session, in which he considered that "the private sector plays a key role in the coming climate transformation, through innovation, investment in renewable energy, and corporate sustainability," stressing that "reduction and consumer awareness are all areas where the private sector is the basis."
“The key to achieving the goals of climate change and sustainability are the sustainable actions announced and implemented by companies to control and reduce greenhouse gas emissions with the aim of reaching net zero emissions by mid-century, ” he said.
He explained dr.
“In order to address the region ’ s multifaceted environmental, environmental and environmental problems, ensuring a more inclusive role for the private sector will be key to supporting a sustainable green transformation in the Arab world, while the public sector will provide an enabling environment, ” he said.“ The private sector must take responsibility by increasing investment in digitization, green investment, energy transition, green finance and taking advantage of the changing technological and environmental world. ”
“For renewable energy projects, Arab countries have high potential for wind and solar energy projects, as the natural conditions are favorable for them as most Arab countries are part of the solar belt, ” he said.
As for the abundance of natural gas reserves, this paves the way for Arab countries to lead green hydrogen projects, especially in light of the growing demand in the region for energy at a compound annual growth rate of 6.8%, while the global consumption rate is 2.3%, which means that the consumption of the region is about three times higher than the average global growth rate.
“Given the annual population growth, investments are significant in infrastructure as well as growth in the construction and transport sectors, so diversifying energy sources towards renewable energy sources is key for the region and its current energy needs, ” he said.
Arab countries have set targets within their national development agendas, such as Djibouti, Morocco, Jordan, Algeria and Egypt, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have announced a target of between 20 and 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.
The cumulative investment in renewable energy projects over the past decade (excluding hydropower) has reached about US $15 billion (7.2 gigawatts) compared to only US $1.2 billion (0.5 gigawatts) in 2008.

Arab nations plan to add over 73 GW of new solar and wind projects by 2030—a five-fold increase from current levels.

Looking ahead, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Morocco are expected to provide the majority of a projected 62 GW regional increase in renewable capacity by 2028, with solar PV accounting for more than 85% of that growth.

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Content: MUSCAT: Renewable capacity expansion in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is projected to grow three-fold over the next five years (2023 – 2028), with the Sultanate of Oman ranked among the front-runners in driving this growth. According to a new report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Oman’s renewables capacity growth is set to be the fourth largest in the region after Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Morocco.

These countries will account for the lion’s share of the 62 gigawatt (GW) increase in renewables capacity anticipated in the region by 2028, the Paris-based intergovernmental agency noted in its newly published report. “Over the next five years, the pace of growth is expected to accelerate to more than three times the previous five-year period, with solar PV making up over 85 per cent of the increase. Onshore wind and concentrated solar power also contribute,” said the IEA in its report, titled ‘Renewables 2023: Analysis and forecast to 2028’.

Driving much of this growth will be efforts by individual countries to decarbonize their electricity generation, but green hydrogen production is set to play a major role as well, according to the report. This is particularly the case in Saudi Arabia, UAE and Oman, it pointed out. “In fact, hydrogen accounts for more than 13 per cent of the region’s renewable capacity growth thanks to government policies to stimulate development for trade. Good solar resources, land availability and existing port infrastructure create favourable conditions for economically attractive renewable hydrogen to be shipped to demand centres in Europe and Asia,” the agency further stated.

Additionally, the report reaffirmed Oman’s positioning among the world’s top exporters of renewable hydrogen. It said: “By 2028, potential export countries could account for over one-fifth of hydrogen-driven renewable capacity deployment, led by Saudi Arabia, Australia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. With the prospect of producing economically attractive renewable hydrogen to ship to potential demand centres in Europe and Asia, these countries aim to become major exporters of renewable hydrogen and hydrogen-based fuels.”

A revised Renewable Energy Plan enshrined in Oman’s 2040 Vision seeks to secure 16 per cent of electricity from renewables by 2025, rising to 30 per cent by 2030. Clean energy capacity is projected to rise to 2.6 GW by 2025 under the National Energy Master Plan. Supplementing this strategy is a commitment to embracing green hydrogen to, on the one hand, decarbonise the economy, and on the other to evolve into a major producer and exporter of renewable hydrogen. Green hydrogen output is targeted at around 1 million tonnes per annum by 2030.

2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

Dedicated action on green hydrogen production is emerging in several countries, leveraging abundant solar resources and existing port infrastructure to target export markets.

Government Incentives and Policy Support

Governments across the Middle East are implementing policies and incentives designed to accelerate renewable energy, particularly solar.

National targets are ambitious, with the UAE aiming for 50% clean energy by 2050, Morocco 52% renewables by 2030, and Saudi Arabia and its neighbors increasing their commitments through comprehensive vision plans (Saudi Vision 2030, UAE Net Zero by 2050, Oman Vision 2040).

Specific policy measures include direct financial incentives, such as lowering electricity costs for renewable consumers in Jordan, green finance schemes, and long-term power purchase agreements to de-risk investment.

Regional engagement in global climate processes—such as pledges made at COP28, with commitments to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030—further reinforce government resolve.

In addition, regulatory reforms to facilitate private sector participation, fast-track permitting, and support for grid integration are boosting both utility-scale and distributed solar uptake.

Early adopters like Jordan applied incentives and policy reforms as early as 2012, resulting in rapid solar growth and significant emissions reductions.

Economic and Climate Impacts

The transition to solar and wider renewables has substantial implications for both economies and climate objectives in the Middle East.

On the economic front, investments in clean energy are designed to promote diversification, reduce dependence on oil revenues, and build future-facing industries such as green hydrogen.

The cumulative investment required for the region to realize its clean energy ambitions is estimated at $1 trillion by 2040.

This activity is creating new employment opportunities, both temporary (e.g., construction jobs for large projects) and permanent (in operations, maintenance, and supporting services).

It is also fostering a more diversified digital economy, as countries invest in innovative technologies like AI and smart grids for efficient system management.

For climate goals, solar adoption directly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel generation.

Improvements in local air quality, especially in urban centers, and progress towards national decarbonization targets are notable outcomes.

The region’s embrace of large-scale renewables also positions it as a potential exporter of clean energy or energy-intensive green products, aligning near-term economic modernization with climate priorities.

Conclusion

The Middle East’s energy transition, while in its early phases relative to overall consumption, is gathering momentum through some of the world’s largest solar projects and increasingly ambitious national policies.

Significant strides have been made in countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco, reflecting a paradigm shift towards renewables both for economic resilience and climate policy alignment.

With renewable capacity set to increase several-fold by 2030, supported by robust financial, policy, and regulatory frameworks, the region is positioned to play a leading role in the global clean energy landscape for decades to come.

However, accelerating grid integration, maintaining investment flows, and scaling up deployment will be essential for these nations to fully realize their energy transition goals and global climate commitments.


The Middle East, long viewed as an oil epicenter, is now making substantial advances in solar energy as part of its energy transition strategies.

The United Arab Emirates has prioritized solar expansion through flagship projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park (targeting 5 GW) and the Al Dhafra Solar Plant (2 GW), propelling the country toward its net zero emissions goal by 2050.

Currently, clean energy in Dubai comprises over 14% of its electricity generation.

The UAE also employs incentives like the Shams Dubai rooftop solar program, net metering schemes, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure (the Green Charger program).

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious drive includes the Neom initiative—with 'The Line,' a fully renewable, car-free city—and gigawatt-scale projects, as the country aims for carbon neutrality by 2060 and leverages some of the world’s lowest solar generation costs.

Egypt is advancing rapidly with the 1,800 MW Benban Solar Park, aided by its Feed-in Tariff (FiT) policy, net metering, and recently expanded private sector participation.

The government targets 42% renewables in its power mix by 2030, with a construction pipeline of 3,500 MW and up to 10 GW more planned with international partners.

Jordan, since 2012, has implemented regulatory incentives like the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Law, offering easier financing and direct bill reductions, resulting in more than 1.7 GW installed solar and wind capacity.

Morocco and Oman, though less cited, are major contributors to regional growth.

Morocco is a pioneer in concentrated solar power and is rapidly increasing solar capacity, while Oman is leveraging its abundant solar resources and is part of a select group, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco, projected to account for 72% of renewable capacity growth in the region by 2027.

The Middle East, long viewed as an oil epicenter, is now making substantial advances in solar energy as part of its energy transition strategies.

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Economy: Benban and the Gulf of Suez are among the largest renewable energy projects
Economic Middle East magazine, which specializes in economics and energy, said that the Benban solar park and the Gulf of Suez wind project in Egypt are considered among the largest renewable energy projects in the Middle East.
Renewable Energy Projects in the Middle East
The Middle East has long relied on oil and gas, not only for revenue but also for power generation, but in the past years, the region has positioned itself as a leader in the renewable energy sector, boasting numerous renewable energy projects.
From 2023 to 2028, Mordor Intelligence expects the renewable energy market in the Middle East to grow by 13.43% annually.
The Arab Clean Energy Initiative was launched by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and during the Arab Economic and Social Development Summit of 2013, the League of Arab States adopted the initiative, with leaders pledging to increase renewable energy generation capacity in the region from 12 GW in 2013 to 80 GW by 2030.
Benban Solar Park
Located in Aswan, Egypt with a capacity of 1,800 megawatts, Benban Solar Park is valued at $4 billion and includes 41 solar power plants, one of the largest solar PV parks in the world, spanning 37 square kilometers and containing 7 million photovoltaic panels, this initiative is a component of Egypt ’ s Renewable Energy Feed Tariff (FiT) program, which was unveiled in September 2014.
Gulf of Suez Wind Power Project
In November last year, ACWA Power and the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (TSFE) signed a memorandum of understanding, and together they will invest in a 1100 MW wind power project in Jebel Zeit and the Gulf of Suez. The project is one of the largest onshore wind farms in the world, and aims to provide power to more than one million households and reduce annual CO2 emissions by 2.4 million tons.

The United Arab Emirates has prioritized solar expansion through flagship projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park (targeting 5 GW) and the Al Dhafra Solar Plant (2 GW), propelling the country toward its net zero emissions goal by 2050.

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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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Currently, clean energy in Dubai comprises over 14% of its electricity generation.

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Content: In a speech entitled "What we bring to COP28 at the World Government Summit 2023"
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: During the second day of the World Government Summit 2023, His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), highlighted Dubai ’ s efforts to tackle the challenges of climate change in the presence of dignitaries and officials from the public and private sectors from around the world.
At the beginning of his speech, HE Al Tayer stressed that the World Government Summit has become a global event on the agenda of global events and a comprehensive knowledge platform to foresee and make the future. He expressed his happiness that Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will be the “Sustainable Energy Partner ” for the summit, which will be held under the theme“ Shaping Future Governments ”.
Support for good leadership
H.E. Al Tayer said: “With the vision, guidance and support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE is preparing to host the largest international climate action event, the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at Expo City. ” Dubai this year, and will continue this cycle, by strengthening the work with all parties and partners, building on the results and outputs of previous sessions.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has declared 2023 as the year of sustainability in the UAE under the slogan "Today for tomorrow", which confirms the great importance attached by the wise leadership to achieving a balance between development and environmental sustainability, which was established by the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The UAE is among the largest countries in the world investing in clean and renewable energy projects. ”
Al Tayer explained that the UAE was the first country in the Middle East and North Africa region to launch a strategic initiative to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
DEWA promotes sustainability, innovation and future-making leadership in all its projects and initiatives to achieve the objectives of Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai Carbon Neutral Strategy 2050 to provide 100% clean energy by 2050, focusing on innovation, Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, digital transformation and circular economy as key enablers of sustainability.
DEWA ’ s strategy is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 and has identified three key levels according to the priority objectives for DEWA.
“As part of our efforts to support global efforts to combat climate change, the Cabinet approved the UAE ’ s accession to the Global Green Economy Alliance, led by the World Green Economy Organization, which aims to launch programs, projects and initiatives related to the green economy, create a model for sustainable financing and establish partnerships for developing countries to achieve an effective transition to a green economy.
We have built innovation into the ecosystem, established a research and development center and an innovation center to find effective solutions to climate change through reducing carbon emissions, and launched a number of projects in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world under the Independent Producer system, at a cost of up to AED 50 billion.
When completed, the complex will contribute to reducing more than 6.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Its clean energy capacity has reached 2,027 megawatts, with Dubai ’ s clean energy capacity accounting for about 14% of total electricity capacity.
At the complex, we use the latest bifacial solar PV technology, with a uniaxial solar tracking system, and clean it with robots, which has raised solar energy efficiency from 11% previously to about 27% today. ”
Pioneering projects in clean energy
Al Tayer pointed out that solar energy depends on the state of the climate, but it is not available during the night time, hence the urgent need to find ways to store solar energy and ensure it around the clock. The Authority launched a number of initiatives and projects in the field of energy storage. The equivalent of the largest solar energy storage capacity in the world for 15 hours.
DEWA is also implementing a 250MW Pumping and Storage Hydroelectric Plant in Hatta, the first of its kind in the Gulf region, which will produce electricity using the water stored in the Hatta Dam, with a storage capacity of 1,500 MWh.
Due to the importance of green hydrogen in the transition to carbon neutrality, DEWA has implemented the Green Hydrogen project in the complex, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa to produce green hydrogen using solar energy, store it and then convert it to electricity in addition to other uses in the sectors of air transport, land, marine and industry.
The Authority is also preparing a roadmap for a green hydrogen strategy to be implemented in stages.
It also launched a pilot project at the complex to store energy using lithium-ion batteries and sulphur sodium batteries for energy storage.
Al Tayer added: “We have established an energy services company to enhance energy efficiency in Dubai and have successfully rehabilitated nearly 8,000 existing buildings in Dubai.
We have also encouraged Shams Dubai customers to install rooftop solar PV panels in their buildings and facilities to meet part of their energy needs, and by the end of 2022, the total installed capacity of the initiative has reached 500 megawatts.
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) co-founded the world ’ s largest district cooling company, with district cooling reducing more than 40% of cooling energy consumption.
To stimulate green mobility, we have launched the Green Charger initiative, to create an advanced electric vehicle infrastructure that currently includes around 350 charging stations that adopt the latest smart and innovative technologies to provide a seamless experience for users.
The implementation of the Dubai Energy and Water Demand Management Strategy has reduced Dubai ’ s electricity consumption by 17 per cent per capita and water consumption by 21 per cent per capita compared to 2010.
More than 14 million tonnes of carbon emissions were avoided between 2011 and 2021.
To enhance the efficiency and operational effectiveness of electricity and water networks and digital transformation, we have launched the DEWA SAT-1 nanosatellite as part of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (SpaceD) program. This year, we will launch the DEWA SAT-2 nanosatellite, the first service organization in the world to use nanosatellites in its operations.
We also leverage big data through sensors distributed in solar power plants to collect and analyze real-time data in conjunction with satellite data.
Support for innovation
His Excellency Al Tayer continued: “Inspired by the inspirational words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God protect him, ‘ The future belongs to those who can imagine, design and implement it ’ and included them in the three main stages of the Authority ’ s Innovation and Future Making Framework, to become the first government entity to include His Highness ’ s words in its innovation and future making framework. ”...
As part of DEWA Digital, the digital arm of DEWA, we are redefining the concept of service enterprises and contributing to a new digital future for the Emirate of Dubai. DEWA Digital is based on four pillars: launching advanced solar technologies, operating a renewable energy network using innovative storage technologies, expanding the use of artificial intelligence solutions and providing digital services that serve smart sustainable cities while ensuring their security and continuity in cyberspace.
Given the importance of data as a driver of sustainable economic expansion and diversification, we have launched the world ’ s largest green, carbon-neutral, 100% solar-powered data center by Guinness World Records, implemented by Dewa Digital ’ s data center company Moro at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.
We have more than 150 local and international partners and customers in the field of sustainability and smart adoption of customer services, which reached 99% and the development of the latest disruptive technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The Authority maintained its first position among global service organizations in the Digital Maturity Report 2022 issued by a global consultancy. ”
As part of the digital transformation, DEWA has launched its virtual employee, Rammas, who is based on artificial intelligence as part of its strategy to employ artificial intelligence technologies in all its operations and services. Rammas answered more than 6.8 million inquiries from customers since its launch in the first quarter of 2017 until the end of December 2022.
RMAS encourages customers to use smart channels and reduce the number of visits to the Authority ’ s Customer Happiness Centers.
DEWA scored 98% in the Dubai Government ’ s Instantaneous Happiness Index, which is measured by the Dubai Digital Authority.
H.E. Al Tayer pointed out that DEWA has launched a smart grid strategy with a total investment of AED 7 billion until 2035, to provide advanced features including improved operations, asset management, smart meters, innovative value-added services, enhancing the experience of stakeholders and enhancing their happiness. DEWA also succeeded in reducing the loss of electricity transmission and distribution networks in Dubai to 2.2%, and the loss of water transmission and distribution networks to 4.5%. A minute.
At the production plants, it succeeded in achieving an optimal fuel utilization rate of 90%.
HE Al Tayer concluded by saying: “With the increasing challenges associated with climate change, the importance of serious global cooperation to combat it and redouble efforts to ensure the preservation of the environment and natural resources and the continuation of sustainable economic growth to achieve the vision of the wise leadership in advancing the global sustainability agenda and stimulate sustainable development. A brighter and more sustainable future for us and our future generations. ”
A new initiative
At the end of His Excellency Saeed Al Tayer ’ s speech, Ramas, the employee of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), announced that DEWA is working to enrich its services with ChatGPT technology in cooperation with Microsoft International, thus becoming the first service institution in the world and the first government institution in the UAE to use this technology, as part of its continuous efforts to enhance its leadership locally and globally.
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The UAE also employs incentives like the Shams Dubai rooftop solar program, net metering schemes, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure (the Green Charger program).

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious drive includes the Neom initiative—with 'The Line,' a fully renewable, car-free city—and gigawatt-scale projects, as the country aims for carbon neutrality by 2060 and leverages some of the world’s lowest solar generation costs.

Egypt is advancing rapidly with the 1,800 MW Benban Solar Park, aided by its Feed-in Tariff (FiT) policy, net metering, and recently expanded private sector participation.

The government targets 42% renewables in its power mix by 2030, with a construction pipeline of 3,500 MW and up to 10 GW more planned with international partners.

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Content: Friday 29 December 2023
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Hassad 2023 | « Electricity »: New renewable energy projects under construction with a total capacity of 1700 MW
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The Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy confirmed that the green hydrogen projects to be established will provide 44,000 direct and indirect jobs and 220,000 temporary jobs, in addition to eliminating 37 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually in Egypt.
Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mohamed Shaker announced that there are 3,500 megawatts under construction and implementation to produce electricity from renewable energy, with investments of up to $4 billion and 400 million.
He added that this comes within the framework of Egypt's keenness to expand renewable energy projects to increase its reliance on electricity generation to provide the quantities of fuel used.
He stressed that the total capacity generated from renewable energy in the national electricity grid in 2025 is expected to reach 15,800 megawatts and reach 42,100 megawatts by 2028.
Total capacity generated from renewable energy will reach 68,500 MW by 2030.
He added that there is a reference plan that aims to rely on renewable energies by 50% by 2040 of the total capacity of the national electricity network with a total capacity of 142,000 megawatts.
Regarding the so-called “Green Plan ”, the minister explained that the state aims to rely on renewable energies by 57% by 2040 with a capacity of 159 thousand megawatts.
He pointed out that Egypt is keen to implement its plan to shift to green energy by amending the renewable energy strategy in Egypt to target reliance on renewable energies by 42% by 2030 instead of 2035.
He pointed out that renewable energy projects in Egypt have become a source of other investments such as green hydrogen, electric cars and water desalination.
For his part, Dr. Mohammed Musa Omran, CEO of the Electricity and Consumer Protection Utility Authority, said that the Authority is keen to overcome any obstacles facing investors in the sector, and speed the completion of licenses for investors and procedures within 15 days.
He added that there are also many legislations for new and renewable energy, and there is an exemption of up to 10 megabytes in the field of integration, and there is progress in net metering projects.
As for consumer complaints, he said that the door is always open to quickly end any problems, explaining that in the framework of developments, the investor can build a sales terminal for the consumer directly without the need to sell the network, which facilitates investment in this sector.
He stressed that the Authority is keen to open the competitive market for the private sector to produce renewable energy and sell it to the private sector and draft bilateral agreements between the private sector to create a favorable environment to attract private investment, which is one of the priorities of the Egyptian government.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Electricity confirmed that the memorandum of understanding signed between the New and Renewable Energy Authority and one of the leading Chinese companies in the field of renewable energy will be investments of up to $10 billion and include the establishment of solar power plants with capacities of up to 10 gigawatts. The participation of renewable energy in the national electricity grid to 42% by 2030, pointing out that Egypt has a huge potential in the field of renewable energy unlike any other in the world, and that the project will produce about 29,784 GWh of clean energy annually, which will contribute to reducing about 14 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
The ministry pointed out that the largest gathering of solar power plants in Egypt and the Middle East is Benban solar complex with a capacity of 1465 megawatts, noting that the memorandum of understanding signed aims to establish plants with a capacity of up to 10,000 megawatts that can be divided into two or three complexes to become the largest gathering of solar power plants in the future.

Jordan, since 2012, has implemented regulatory incentives like the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Law, offering easier financing and direct bill reductions, resulting in more than 1.7 GW installed solar and wind capacity.

Morocco and Oman, though less cited, are major contributors to regional growth.

Title:

Content: New technologies to achieve sustainability goals and address climate change
Science and Technology
Huawei
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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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Morocco is a pioneer in concentrated solar power and is rapidly increasing solar capacity, while Oman is leveraging its abundant solar resources and is part of a select group, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco, projected to account for 72% of renewable capacity growth in the region by 2027.

Title:

Content: In numbers...
Arab countries race to double their renewable energy production by 2030
ECONOMY
Publish
3 minutes read
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — (CNN) Arab countries are on track to grow their utility-scale wind and solar capacity by more than 500% by 2023, according to a report by Global Energy Monitor.
According to the report, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has enormous potential for large-scale wind and solar power projects because of its favorable climate and sunny weather for most of the year.
Arab countries are planning more than 73 gigawatts of utility-scale solar and wind projects, a more than fivefold increase in current capacity, which together with operational projects will account for 91% of the Arab League ’ s renewable energy goals for 2030.
The UAE is at the top of the list of Arab countries that produce the most electricity from solar energy, with solar plants producing 2.6 gigawatts of electricity.
Egypt is among the Arab countries that produce the most electricity from wind power at 1.6 gigawatts.
Egypt produces 1.9 gigawatts of electricity from solar power plants.
Egypt ’ s total electricity production from both places it at the top of the list of Arab countries with a production capacity of 3.5 gigawatts.
Thanks to its huge investments in solar electricity production, the UAE ranks second in wind and solar electricity production, followed by Morocco in third place with 1.9 GW and Jordan in fourth place with 1.7 GW.
While Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and Jordan are the first Arab countries to initiate wind and solar power plants, Oman, Algeria and Kuwait are poised to follow suit, ranking first in expected solar and wind power production in the near future.
Here are the top Arab countries in terms of the current operation of solar and wind energy on the scale of utilities and the capacity of wind and solar energy expected to be produced at the level of each country in the Arab region.