UAE, Uruguay to join forces in clean energy, climate action

The UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and Uruguay’s Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025.

Nawal Al Hanaee, Director of the Future Energy Department at MoEI, and Christian Nieves Lauz, National Energy Director of the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining of Uruguay, signed the memorandum, which stipulates that both parties share knowledge and expertise, hold high-level discussion meetings, and organise workshops in energy-related fields.

Al Hanaee emphasised that such partnerships contribute to shaping the transition towards clean and renewable energy.

Additionally, it will help open wide horizons for growth and development within the efforts of both countries to diversify their energy mix and rely on clean energy.

She added that this memorandum reflects both sides’ shared commitment to developing strategic partnerships for their benefits as it establishes a framework for collaboration to support key sectors, such as clean energy and climate action.

Meanwhile 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.”