UAE's Pioneering Role in Global Energy Transition
Key Ideas
- The UAE, through initiatives like Masdar and the Distributed Solar System project, is rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity aiming to reach 14.2 GW by 2030.
- The country is a pioneer in the region for signing the Paris Agreement, committing to reducing emissions, and setting a net-zero target by 2050.
- The UAE is leveraging nuclear energy for 25% of its electricity needs through the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, contributing to a carbon-free energy mix.
- With ambitions to lead in the hydrogen sector, the UAE aims to produce 1.4 million metric tonnes annually by 2031 and increase to 15 million tonnes by 2050.
Ahmed Al Kaabi, from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure in the UAE, emphasized the country's leading role in the global energy transition during the High-level Panel on 'Energy Transition Pathways in Emerging Economies'. The UAE's commitment to cleaner energy is evident through initiatives like Masdar and the Distributed Solar System project. Al Kaabi highlighted the UAE's achievements, including being the first in the region to sign the Paris Agreement and invest heavily in renewable energy projects. The country's focus on renewable energy has led to significant growth in the sector, with plans to reach 14.2 GW of capacity by 2030. Additionally, the UAE is pioneering the use of nuclear energy for electricity generation and aims to become a global leader in hydrogen production by 2050. Al Kaabi emphasized the importance of global partnerships and innovation in driving the clean energy transition, showcasing the UAE's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.