AUS Petrofac Research Chair In Renewable Energy Earns Prestigious Majra Endorsement For Sustainability Efforts

The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) has been honoured with the Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp. This accolade, awarded by Majra, the UAE’s National CSR Fund, acknowledges the chair's contributions to sustainability, economic growth, and social progress. It underscores AUS' dedication to renewable energy innovation and aligns with both UAE national priorities and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Established in November 2009 with a generous AED15 million endowment from Petrofac, the research chair was designed to advance interdisciplinary research in clean energy technologies. The initiative brings together experts from physics, chemistry, and engineering to foster innovation in solar energy efficiency, energy storage solutions, green hydrogen production, and AI-driven energy management systems.

The chair's efforts support the UAE’s ambition to become a hub for sustainable energy innovation. "The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy has united experts to foster innovation in clean energy technologies," said Ali Abdulla Al Ali, Petrofac UAE Country Chair. He added that their dedication is recognised by the Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp from Majra.

Dr. Amani Al-Othman, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering and Petrofac Endowed Chair in Renewable Energy at AUS, stated: "The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy reflects the power of collaboration between academia and industry." She emphasised that Petrofac’s support enables impactful research addressing global energy challenges.

The chair has made significant environmental contributions by advancing solar energy efficiency and remote monitoring of renewable systems. These efforts help reduce carbon footprints and support the UAE’s clean energy goals. Economically, it strengthens the renewable sector through industry-academic collaboration, job creation, technological innovation, and public-private partnerships.

Socially, the chair nurtures future renewable energy leaders by engaging students in hands-on research and promoting sustainability through outreach initiatives. This approach fosters a culture of sustainability among upcoming engineers and scientists.

Aligning with Global Initiatives

The presence of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City complements these efforts. IRENA supports countries transitioning to sustainable energy by offering policy advice, technological insights, and investment guidance. This alignment enhances the UAE's global competitiveness in clean energy.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering, highlighted: "The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy has been instrumental in advancing research that contributes to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions." He noted that their work optimises solar technologies and explores new approaches in sustainable storage.

AUS as a Centre of Excellence

The chair significantly boosts AUS’ reputation as a centre for renewable energy education. It attracts top-tier students and faculty while facilitating collaborative projects with industry partners and government entities. Endowed chairs at AUS honour faculty excellence in research and academic leadership.

This recognition highlights AUS' commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration through endowed chairs that attract top scholars dedicated to advancing knowledge. The university's strong partnerships with donors are crucial for driving impactful research and mentoring future leaders.

With inputs from WAM