The Middle East, long synonymous with oil wealth, is undergoing a significant energy transition focused on solar power, driven by national diversification goals, climate commitments, and economic pragmatism.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands at the forefront, investing $163.5 billion in clean energy, anchored by the Al Dhafra solar plant (2 GW) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park (5 GW), with operational solar capacity at about 2.6 GW and substantial capacity under development.

Saudi Arabia, under its Vision 2030 agenda, is accelerating solar deployment, aiming for 50% renewables in its energy mix by 2030, with major projects in partnership with global solar leaders and an expanding domestic supply chain targeting 10 GW of solar modules and batteries by the decade's end .

Egypt, targeting 42% renewables by 2035, has approximately 1.9 GW of operating solar (notably the Benban Solar Park) and a total wind and solar capacity of 3.5 GW, with significant expansion underway.

Morocco leads North Africa with 1.9 GW installed renewables, a 52% renewable target by 2030, and advanced policy frameworks; its Noor Ouarzazate complex and the X-Link mega-project underscore its ambitions .

Jordan, with 1.7 GW renewables, fosters private and small-scale adoption through supportive legislation and incentives, while Oman, Kuwait, and Algeria are scaling up respective solar programs with Oman's Ibri II plant (507–607 MW) setting new benchmarks .

Government policies across the region are crucial: the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050, Saudi green initiatives, Morocco's international finance leverage, Egypt's subsidy and regulatory support, and targeted policies in Oman and Kuwait reflect diverse but converging approaches.

Incentives include net metering, low-interest loans, direct subsidies, and frameworks for green hydrogen and export markets.

The Middle East, long synonymous with oil wealth, is undergoing a significant energy transition focused on solar power, driven by national diversification goals, climate commitments, and economic pragmatism.

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Content: Contribution ｜ Explore Hong Kong ’ s role and opportunities in the development of renewable energy in the Middle East
Author: 01 More Voices
Published: Updated:
In recent years, Hong Kong has actively promoted the development of renewable energy and launched a number of related products in the financial market.
In addition, more and more Hong Kong enterprises have also started to participate in the development of this industry, especially in the financial market, and launched a number of financial products to support the development of renewable energy.
At the same time, many countries in the Middle East, such as the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Turkey, are also actively engaged in various large-scale projects to promote the development of renewable energy, and expect to see a different energy mix and economic development model in 2030 or 2050.
For Hong Kong, China and other countries, the development opportunities of the Middle East market cannot be ignored, and Hong Kong ’ s participation in this area cannot be underestimated.
Submitted by: Kwong Cheuk-wui
Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in several seminars on economic and energy development in the Middle East, and have in-depth exchanges with government representatives in charge of foreign affairs and trade from various Middle Eastern countries and Azerbaijan.
These exchange experiences provide the author with a wealth of insight.
After many in-depth talks, to understand the interest and momentum of the development of renewable energy in many countries in the Middle East, the author synthesized the information from various parties and came to the following insights: The reason why the major oil producers in the Middle East are actively developing renewable energy is to achieve economic diversification and get rid of dependence on oil and related industries.
They hope to turn the country ’ s surplus renewable energy into new, dependable foreign revenues (i.e., revenues generated from natural resource exports; “Rents ”) through innovative technologies.
For other non-oil producing countries, they want to achieve economic sustainability through the development of renewable energy, reduce dependence on traditional fossil fuels or electricity imports, and convert renewable energy into new external rental income to boost the country ’ s economic development.
From this, it can be seen that the Middle East countries are very concerned about the development of renewable energy, but also hope to complete the energy transformation as soon as possible, and look forward to renewable energy can produce more and greater economic benefits, create new dependent income, promote economic diversification and modernization, but also benefit thousands of people.
As a result, many countries in the Middle East have invested heavily in and promoted energy transformation and clean energy development.
Although many countries have made extraordinary achievements in driving renewable energy development, they also face many challenges.
Jordan, for example, has a wealth of renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, geothermal and bioenergy, as well as state-of-the-art renewable energy laws, regulatory mechanisms and development frameworks.
Earlier this year, Jordan successfully achieved its national roadmap, originally set for 2030, with renewable energy accounting for 31% of total energy.
The Jordanian government also plans to increase this target to 50%, and is committed to building the country into a regional renewable energy development center and exporting environmentally friendly power to neighboring countries to increase the country ’ s foreign revenue.
However, like other Middle Eastern countries, Jordan faces a host of challenges.
These challenges include lagging energy infrastructure, imperfect grid planning, an over-concentration of resources on solar and wind with less focus on geothermal energy, and a lack of energy storage systems and foreign investment.
In addition, there is the debt problem of the national power company.
These difficulties not only affect Jordan ’ s progress in developing renewable energy, but also act as a barrier to modernizing and diversifying the country ’ s economy.
Some Jordanian officials and scholars are concerned about whether the development of renewable energy is progressing as expected.
They are concerned that if the development of renewable energy and its core economic development model are not carried out smoothly, or if the newly set targets are not successfully achieved, the country ’ s economic sustainability will be adversely affected.
At the same time, it can undermine the credibility and governance of the government.
In particular, those political forces that have been opposed to the use of renewable energy to promote economic development and diversification may take the opportunity to launch opposition actions, further endangering the political stability and regional security of the country and the Middle East as a whole.
It is worth noting that these challenges are not only in Jordan, but also in Middle Eastern countries such as Morocco and Egypt.
Other countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have also made great efforts to develop solar and wind power in recent years, but in addition to the above concerns and challenges, there are also concerns that the development of renewable energy will have some impact on the high dependence of these countries ’ economies on oil and gas markets, which may affect existing incomes and lead to economic and social instability.
Other factors include the huge demand for capital, the need for foreign technology and talents, the need for talent training, economic feasibility, etc. These are also issues of concern to the officials of these Middle Eastern countries.
These challenges are in fact a valuable development opportunity for Hong Kong.
The key is to make good use of our strengths, especially in the Belt and Road Initiative, to work with the Middle East countries to promote renewable energy and green economy development.
This not only helps these countries diversify their economies, but also creates development opportunities for Hong Kong businesses and governments, and indirectly promotes the development of other industries.
I suggest that Hong Kong can establish cooperation platforms and channels of communication with transnational organizations in the Middle East and North Africa, such as the Arab Parliamentary Union, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Turkic Parliament and the Arab Maghreb Union.
Such a platform could be used to explore free trade agreements and to help Middle Eastern countries provide services such as finance, advisory, legal, education or training, and energy infrastructure.
This will not only help Hong Kong consolidate its leading position in the professional services sector and the financial sector, but will also directly or indirectly create many development opportunities, especially in Islamic finance.
Finally, Hong Kong can consider providing financial support to the Middle East countries by assisting in the issuance of Islamic financial bonds to promote the development of renewable energy, and can also take the opportunity to develop Islamic finance in Hong Kong as a new financial center outside the Islamic world.
Of course, Hong Kong should not only cooperate with major countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates or the above-mentioned multinational organizations and platforms, but also consider other regions with development potential and worthy of investment, such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Morocco, etc.
This diverse collaboration will help Hong Kong expand its international presence and contribute to global sustainability in the renewable energy sector.
The author, Mr Kwong Cheuk-rui, is the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Group of Ideas, a Master of Arts from the Australian National University, and has worked at the Australian Institute of International Affairs.
The article is only the opinion of the author and does not represent the position of Hong Kong 01.
Please email us at 01view @ hk01.com.
Please attach the author ’ s real name and contact details.
If not applicable, without prior notice.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands at the forefront, investing $163.5 billion in clean energy, anchored by the Al Dhafra solar plant (2 GW) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park (5 GW), with operational solar capacity at about 2.6 GW and substantial capacity under development.

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Content: Sunday, 24 September 2023 02: 03 GMT
2030 Arab Goal to Advance Renewable Energy Capabilities Globally
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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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Saudi Arabia, under its Vision 2030 agenda, is accelerating solar deployment, aiming for 50% renewables in its energy mix by 2030, with major projects in partnership with global solar leaders and an expanding domestic supply chain targeting 10 GW of solar modules and batteries by the decade's end .

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Content: People 's Network > > International
Sino-Arab green transformation cooperation is on the rise
December 8, 2022, 13: 09 | Source: Xinhua Network
Small number
Xinhua News Agency, BEIJING, December 8 (International observation) Sino-Arab cooperation on green transformation is on the rise
Xinhua News Agency reporter Luo Guofang
China and Arab countries have different resource endowments and development paths, but they are in the key stage of green development transformation.
The pursuit of a common vision of sustainable development will push China and Argentina to move forward together in a cleaner, greener and low-carbon direction, and continuously deepen cooperation in related fields to benefit the people of China and Argentina.
Development Complementary Advantages
At present, China's development is changing from high-speed growth to high-quality development, and it is committed to energy transformation and clean development in the field of energy, and strives to build a clean, low-carbon, safe and efficient energy system.
At the same time, many Arab countries have also launched energy transformation plans in recent years, committed to the development of clean and renewable energy, and strive to reduce dependence on fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas, and promote sustainable economic development.
Saudi Arabia announced in its Vision 2030 development strategy that by 2030, the proportion of renewable energy in the country's energy mix will reach 50%.
The UAE ’ s Energy Strategy 2050 aims to increase the share of clean energy in the total energy mix to 50% by 2050.
Egypt plans to increase the share of clean energy generation to 40% by 2035.
The Arab region has one of the best solar and wind energy resource endowments in the world, and the development of clean and renewable energy has unique conditions.
According to a report released by the Global Energy Monitor in June this year, Arab countries in the Middle East and North Africa plan to add 73 gigawatts of utility-scale solar and wind capacity by 2030, more than five times the current installed capacity.
China has advanced technology and rich experience in the field of photovoltaic and wind power, and has complementary advantages with Arab countries in the field of clean and renewable energy.
Abu Dhabi Energy Director, Avida Murshid Maral, said that vigorously developing renewable energy has become a global trend, which creates a good opportunity for deepening Arab-Chinese energy cooperation.
Collaborating for a Green Transition
In recent years, China has actively expanded cooperation with Arab countries in the field of clean and renewable energy, and the two sides have jointly implemented a number of cooperation projects.
The Zafra Solar Power Station, about 35 kilometers from Abu Dhabi City, is the largest single photovoltaic power station in the world, with an installed capacity of 2 GW.
The solar power plant, which is contracted by a Chinese company, will help Abu Dhabi reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2.4 million tons per year and play an important role in the sustainable development of the UAE's energy economy.
Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast is creating a green new city, the project called the Red Sea New City, the future electricity supply will be 100% from clean energy.
The realization of this vision will not only rely on solar and wind energy, but also benefit from energy storage systems that can act as energy “cisterns ” and“ regulators, stabilizers ”.
The successful signing of the Red Sea New City energy storage project by Chinese enterprises will help Saudi Arabia to build a global clean energy and green economy center.
Abdullah Wadi, a researcher at the Saudi think tank Research and Knowledge Exchange Center, said that Saudi Arabia and China are committed to vigorously developing clean and renewable energy, and actively promoting relevant international cooperation, which has set a good example for the international community to work together to promote green and low-carbon development and jointly deal with various challenges and global issues facing mankind.
Helping Fishing Development
With the deepening of cooperation between China and Arab countries in clean energy, low-carbon economy and energy transition, China ’ s advanced technology in related fields has also entered Arab countries. China adheres to the concept of “teaching people to fish ” and helps Arab countries improve their independent development capabilities through multi-level cooperative research and training programs.
China and Arab countries jointly set up the China-Arab Clean Energy Training Center to jointly organize capacity-building activities in photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind power and smart grid.
China and Egypt have set up a Sino-Egyptian joint laboratory on renewable energy to carry out joint research, promote personnel training, and help Egypt strengthen scientific and technological capacity building.
Since its establishment in 2015, the China-Arab Technology Transfer Center has built eight bilateral technology transfer centers in Saudi Arabia, Jordan and other countries, forming a technology transfer cooperation network linking nearly 5,000 Chinese and foreign members.
“The development of zero-carbon and low-carbon energy technologies is of great significance.
These technologies align with our energy transition goals, make the energy industry more resilient and help us build a sustainable and peaceful future, ” said Maral.
(Editor: Jia Wenting, Liu Jieyan)
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Egypt, targeting 42% renewables by 2035, has approximately 1.9 GW of operating solar (notably the Benban Solar Park) and a total wind and solar capacity of 3.5 GW, with significant expansion underway.

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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

Morocco leads North Africa with 1.9 GW installed renewables, a 52% renewable target by 2030, and advanced policy frameworks; its Noor Ouarzazate complex and the X-Link mega-project underscore its ambitions .

Jordan, with 1.7 GW renewables, fosters private and small-scale adoption through supportive legislation and incentives, while Oman, Kuwait, and Algeria are scaling up respective solar programs with Oman's Ibri II plant (507–607 MW) setting new benchmarks .

Title:

Content: Among them Iraq.
5 Arab Countries Leading Solar Energy Support Programs
2023-11-07 | 02: 22
Alsumaria News – Economy
Solar subsidy and loan programs in Arab countries continue at a time when the need for alternative energy sources is acute, as the effects of climate change intensify, and the global energy crisis that began with the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022 intensifies.
Solar energy in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Kuwait receives official support, either through direct legislation approved by the parliaments of these countries, or through loans made available by government and official banks there, or through national and national projects provided by the ministries of energy and electricity, according to the specialized energy platform.
In the coming years, support for solar energy in Arab countries is expected to gain momentum, with many declaring their commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by mid-century and plans to increase the contribution of renewable energy to their electricity mix by 2050.
* Support for solar energy in Jordan
The most prominent support received by solar energy in the Arab countries is that provided by Jordan, through a range of programs supervised by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, as the solar loan project in Jordan witnessed a new step on Sunday, October 29, as part of efforts to motivate citizens to adopt clean energy.
The Agricultural Credit Corporation signed an agreement with the Renewable Energy Promotion Fund to support the second phase of the program to install solar cell systems for farmers to cover the interest on the loans, according to a press release.
* Solar Loans in Jordan
The Minister of Agriculture and Chairman of the Agricultural Lending Corporation, Khalid Al-Hanifat, said that the agreement will reduce the cost of production for farmers, as it targets all animal and plant agricultural activities, as it covers beneficiaries with a ceiling of 20 thousand dinars (28.1 thousand US dollars) without interest.
At the same time, Jordan is preparing for the third phase of the strongest support program witnessed by solar energy in the Arab countries, the installation of solar cells in homes, the second phase of which ended in July 2023, according to information monitored by the specialized energy platform.
This program aims to support the use of solar energy in Jordanian homes, as well as the installation of solar heaters, which will reduce the cost of electricity for citizens, while reducing the energy import bill for the state.
* Solar Loans in Lebanon
As part of the efforts to support solar energy in the Arab countries, the Lebanese effort, which aims to alleviate the energy crisis, is highlighted through an important program to grant solar energy loans, which are an appropriate and sustainable solution to overcome the energy threat, as described by the Lebanese government a year ago.
The installation of solar energy in the homes of Lebanese will solve the crisis of high electricity bills, as these loans are provided to the low- and middle-income by the initiative "Loans to the low- and middle-income", in cooperation with the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation.
Loans for the installation of solar energy systems and plants in Lebanon range from 75 million to 200 million liras ($2,590 to $6,900) per person, up to a maximum of 80% of the project cost, and at an interest rate of 4.99% per annum, depending on the specialized energy platform.
* Information on Solar Loans in Lebanon
It is noteworthy that the solar energy market in the Arab countries is witnessing increasing growth, especially in Lebanon, which, despite its major crisis, witnessed during 2020 about 313 projects authorized, with a capacity of 14 MW, before this number increased, and the country records 662 applications for the installation of solar plants, during the period from October 2021 to March 2022.
According to the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation, the installation of solar power plants in Lebanese homes will save citizens the value of high bills, which makes them able to save the value of the loan within two to three years, especially since the repayment is limited to paper lira only.
Solar energy in Egypt
In August 2023, the Committee on Energy and Environment in the Egyptian House of Representatives set a number of rules to increase the number of small household units to consume electricity from solar energy, as part of its recommendations on the Economic and Social Development Plan for 2023-2024.
The Committee stressed the need to develop alternative renewable sources of energy, to take action to mitigate and adapt to climate change and its consequences, while working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and to accelerate the transition to low-carbon vehicles.
Solar energy in Egypt
Prior to these directives, Egypt witnessed one of the strongest solar energy subsidy programs in the Arab countries, with four banks, including government banks, providing loans of large amounts to support the installation of solar energy systems and their stations for homes, through various repayment programs.
HSBC Egypt, one of the largest solar loans in the Arab world, is offering EGP 2 million ($64,675) with a repayment period of about seven years, while QNB is offering a loan of EGP 400,000 ($12,930) for seven years.
Misr State Bank also offers a financing program worth up to EGP 500,000 ($16,168) and a repayment period of up to 10 years, while the Commercial International Bank (CIB) offers a loan worth EGP 350,000 ($11,300) with a repayment period of 5 years.
* Solar energy in Kuwait
As the State of Kuwait prepares to complete new phases of the Shaqaya CSP project, the State continues to encourage citizens to use solar energy in their homes, as part of its drive to achieve carbon neutrality and reduce emissions by mid-century.
The State of Kuwait adopts a unique approach that distinguishes it from all consumers of solar energy in the Arab countries, as it encourages citizens to sell electricity in excess of their consumption to the government, generated from solar panels installed on rooftops.
* Solar energy in Kuwait
According to an analysis by Mordor Intelligence, seen by the specialized energy platform, the solar energy market in Kuwait is expected to register a compound annual growth rate of more than 7%, especially as this market is achieving a significant recovery, despite the damage caused by the outbreak of the Coronavirus three years ago.
Despite this, Kuwait ’ s solar market is not growing in line with expectations, as initial spending is large, and there is a lack of multiple government programs during the forecast period, but over time internal subsidies continue, leaving the country with the most important solar projects in the Arab countries.
At the same time, the Kuwaiti government is working to provide solar energy to citizens by building huge power plants from an inexhaustible renewable source, especially as Kuwait enjoys a very high brightness, which qualifies it to enter this market from its widest doors.
Iraq to finance solar installation
As Iraq faces one of the difficult electricity crises, caused by the lack of Iranian gas supplies, and seeks alternative sources, both external (such as Qatari gas) and internal (such as the tendency to burn gas associated with electricity generation), Baghdad continues to provide one of the most important forms of solar energy subsidies in Arab countries.
In January 2022, the Central Bank of Iraq issued controls to finance electricity generation systems from renewable energy, as the governor of the bank signed the first circular that allows citizens and institutions to buy systems and power plants from solar energy.
Solar energy in Iraq
This initiative is in line with the State ’ s commitment to the decisions of the Paris Climate Conference, as the interest on loans provided to citizens to install solar power plants did not exceed 1%.
While the value of loans ranged between 7 million Iraqi dinars (4 thousand and 800 dollars) for stations 3 kilowatt hours, and one billion dinars (685 thousand dollars) for large projects in residential squares, according to the website of the Central Bank of Iraq.
Source: Energy Platform
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Government policies across the region are crucial: the UAE's Energy Strategy 2050, Saudi green initiatives, Morocco's international finance leverage, Egypt's subsidy and regulatory support, and targeted policies in Oman and Kuwait reflect diverse but converging approaches.

Incentives include net metering, low-interest loans, direct subsidies, and frameworks for green hydrogen and export markets.