UAE And Technology Innovation Institute Partner To Map Mineral, Renewable Resources In 3D

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has entered into a significant collaborative agreement with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) to create 3D maps of the UAE's natural resources. This initiative aims to support sustainable development and the discovery of mineral resources and renewables, including geothermal energy.

TII, a global scientific research centre and the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), will work alongside MoEI to explore and utilise undiscovered renewable and mineral resources. This effort aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, which outlines the nation's ambitious journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.

The programme is set to last up to five years and will consist of multiple projects aimed at discovering the UAE's natural resources. As part of the agreement, TII’s Directed Energy Research Centre (DERC) will play a crucial role by leveraging its expertise in advancing directed energy systems and technologies in the region.

Both entities will also collaborate to develop research and technical capacity in specific fields, including geology, mineral resources, and salt body distribution analysis. This partnership is expected to significantly enhance the UAE's capabilities in these areas.

Saif Ghubash, Assistant Under-Secretary for Petroleum, Gas, and Mineral Resources at MoEI, stated that TII’s advanced research capabilities combined with MoEI's extensive geological expertise are set to transform the landscape of mineral resources and renewable energy exploration.

Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director-General of ATRC, commented, "This partnership combines the exceptional expertise and innovative capabilities of TII and MoEI. Together we’re displaying a solid commitment to promoting the discovery of mineral resources and renewable energy, which paves the way for sustainable development."

Strategic Importance

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, highlighted that this collaboration with MoEI will significantly advance the UAE's mapping, exploration, and discovery of mineral resources and renewable energies. This initiative is seen as a critical step towards achieving the nation’s net-zero objectives.

The agreement underscores a shared commitment between MoEI and TII to foster sustainable energy solutions. By combining their expertise, both entities aim to make substantial progress in discovering new resources that will contribute to the UAE's long-term sustainability goals.

This collaborative effort between MoEI and TII marks a significant milestone in the UAE's journey towards sustainable development. The creation of 3D maps of natural resources is expected to provide valuable insights that will aid in the exploration and utilisation of renewable energy sources. Through this partnership, the UAE aims to make considerable strides towards its net-zero objectives by 2050.

With inputs from WAM