UAE fastest-growing clean energy market in region: Suhail Al Mazrouei

Suhail Bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted the UAE’s leading position in clean and renewable energy, emphasising its crucial role in stabilising global energy markets and driving sustainable development through significant domestic energy investments.

He noted that the UAE’s energy strategy prioritises a balanced approach, integrating traditional and clean energy sources, a cornerstone of both the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050.

In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the occasion of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, Al Mazrouei reiterated the UAE’s unwavering commitment to achieving its Net Zero 2050 Strategy by advancing ambitious renewable energy projects. He underscored the nation’s continued efforts to ensure a sustainable and diversified energy sector, fostering long-term growth and innovation.

Addressing the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, Al Mazrouei explained the implementation of a national policy to encourage the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles. This policy includes a strategic pricing framework for fast and regular charging services, incentivising investments in the necessary infrastructure.

Al Mazrouei also highlighted the UAE’s remarkable achievements in global energy competitiveness indicators. Under the leadership’s guidance, the UAE secured top rankings in seven key indicators in 2024.

The minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to achieving sustainable development goals in collaboration with federal and local authorities. This includes implementing impactful projects and initiatives that support the growth of national industries, particularly in sectors such as petrochemicals, hydrogen, and ammonia.

He emphasised that these endeavours are crucial for solidifying the UAE’s position as a global leader in the clean and renewable energy sector.

Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Electricity, Water, and Future Energy Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), stressed that the UAE continues to lead the global energy transition through its ambitious strategies and initiatives that contribute to shaping a better world.

His remarks came during his participation in the High-level Panel on ‘Energy Transition Pathways in Emerging Economies’, organised by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

He said, “From the beginning, the UAE recognised the need for cleaner energy to protect our planet and our future. We also saw the environmental, social, and economic benefits of this shift and invested heavily in renewable energy projects. This gave us a great opportunity to lead the clean energy transition.” Al Kaabi added that the UAE was the first in the region to sign the Paris Agreement, commit to reducing emissions nationwide, and set a net-zero target by 2050.

“Nearly two decades ago, we created Masdar, a leader in renewable energy. Since then, Masdar has played a key role in advancing clean energy and sustainability both in the UAE and worldwide. Today, the UAE’s renewable energy sector is growing rapidly. By 2030, we aim to reach 14.2 GW of renewable energy capacity. We also have three of the world’s largest solar plants, with more projects underway,” he noted.

He added, “As part of our drive to spread the use of renewables, we launched the Distributed Solar System (DSS) project, enabling customers to generate their own solar power by installing rooftop PV systems. By feeding this power back into the grid, we enhance our renewable energy supply and strengthen our energy independence. Every panel we install will reduce the UAE’s carbon footprint.” Al Kaabi pointed out that the UAE is also the first Arab nation to use nuclear energy peacefully, with the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant providing 25% of the country’s electricity from a carbon-free source.

He added that a key part of the UAE’s clean energy strategy is low-carbon hydrogen, as it aims to become a global leader in hydrogen by 2031, producing 1.4 million metric tonnes annually and increasing that to 15 million tonnes by 2050.

“The UAE is also driving innovation and global partnerships. As a founding member of IRENA, we are shaping the global energy transition. As we look to the future, we are committed to leading the global transition to clean energy. With determination and forward-thinking leadership, the UAE is on track to achieve net-zero by 2050,” Al Kaabi stated.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment on Monday took part in the 15th IRENA Assembly in Abu Dhabi, where she emphasised the UAE’s commitment to accelerating the global energy transition through collaboration, inclusivity, and strategic partnerships.

In delivering the host country’s statement, Dr Al Dahak highlighted the UAE’s commitment to doubling its clean and renewable energy capacity, a key step towards achieving its Net Zero by 2050 Strategy. Al Dahak reiterated the ambitious goals of the UAE Consensus, forged at COP28, which calls for tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030. She urged nations to strengthen commitments, prioritise project flexibility, and incentivise private investment. “The world is watching, and the time for action is now,” the minister stated, calling for global cooperation towards “a cleaner, greener, more sustainable energy future.” In the Assembly’s press conference, the minister underscored the urgent need to bridge the gap in renewable energy deployment. She showcased the UAE’s commitment to supporting developing nations through targeted investments, including ALTÉRRA, the world’s largest private climate investment fund, and the Africa Green Investment Initiative, which drives clean power projects across Africa.

Al Dahak advocated for a collaborative and inclusive approach to the global energy transition, urging nations to set ambitious renewable energy targets and create attractive environments for private investment. She also highlighted the role of IRENA’s platform in measuring progress and informing strategic decisions as the world prepares for COP30 in Belém.

Beyond the formal Assembly session, Dr. Al Dahak engaged in a dynamic IRENA Youth Fireside Chat, where she stressed the important role of youth in climate solutions. Al Dahak encouraged the attended youth to embrace opportunities in the renewable energy sector, emphasising their unique perspectives and leadership potential. Drawing on her own career experiences, HE advised aspiring young leaders to be decisive, build strong partnerships, and maintain a clear vision.

WAM