In 2022, Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reported that the country’s share of installed clean energy capacity had reached 15.6 percent of its total energy mix. The ambitious goal is to elevate this figure to 30 percent by 2030, aligning with the updated UAE Energy Strategy 2050. Al Mazrouei shared these insights during an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) at the sidelines of the 2023 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2023).
The UAE has emerged as a global leader in the Energy Transition pillar of the Green Future Index 2023, securing the second position. This ranking evaluates 76 nations and territories on their progress toward a sustainable, low-carbon future, measuring their commitment to clean energy, industry, agriculture, and society through investments in renewables, innovation, and green policies.
Over the past 15 years, the UAE has invested substantially, exceeding US$40 billion in clean energy projects. Al Mazrouei indicated that this investment is projected to increase to a range of $150-200 billion by 2030. This financial commitment is vital to meet the country’s growing energy demand and sustain economic growth. The focus is on transitioning to more sustainable energy solutions while ensuring energy security and grid stability.
Al Mazrouei highlighted the significant role of the UAE’s energy sector in the upcoming 28th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP28), hosted by the UAE later in the year. He emphasized the sector’s pivotal role in contributing to the success of this global event. The UAE’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving net-zero targets by 2050 is a key component of the country’s strategy. The minister stressed that the energy sector plays a crucial role in realizing this commitment.
In conclusion, Al Mazrouei reiterated the UAE’s dedication to sustainability, as outlined in the updated Energy Strategy 2050. The goal is to make the water and energy sectors carbon neutral by 2050, reflecting the nation’s determination to contribute significantly to global efforts to combat climate change. The UAE’s journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future is marked by substantial investments, strategic goals, and active participation in international initiatives.
