UAE Drives Renewable Energy Forward With AI Integration And Storage, Doubling Capacity

The United Arab Emirates is presenting itself as a driver of a global shift in renewable energy, according to Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak. The Minister of Climate Change and Environment said the country is moving beyond traditional deployment and is building systems that combine Artificial Intelligence with large-scale storage for stable clean power.

Dr. Al Dahak stressed that this direction reflects the vision of the UAE’s leadership. The aim is not only to add more solar generation, but to secure reliable baseload electricity from renewables at all hours. Her comments framed the UAE as a partner for countries seeking practical climate and development solutions.

Describing recent progress, Dr. Al Dahak said the UAE has shifted from plans to delivery in renewable energy. She stated: "We doubled our renewable capacity from 3.1 gigawatts in 2022 to 6 gigawatts by 2024, and we are on track to reach 14.2 gigawatts by 2030." These figures highlight rapid implementation.

The Minister showcased a major project now under construction in Abu Dhabi, led by Masdar and Emirates Water and Electricity Company. The hybrid solar-plus-storage plant will have 5 gigawatts of generation and 19 gigawatt-hours of storage. The design uses AI-based forecasting and smart dispatch to balance output and meet constant demand.

Explaining its significance, Dr. Al Dahak said the facility offers a template for future systems. She described it as a "glimpse into the future of global energy systems," and noted that it will deliver "1 gigawatt of uninterrupted clean power" and use AI-driven tools, thereby "overcoming intermittency once and for all." The project links digital tools with hardware scale.

These messages were delivered during the 16th Session of the International Renewable Energy Agency Assembly, held in Abu Dhabi from January 10 to 12. The meeting ran under the theme "Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity" and brought together representatives from 171 Member States, alongside investors and international organisations.

The Assembly gathered ministers, energy leaders, chief executives and youth delegates to agree joint priorities for 2026. Dr. Al Dahak presented the UAE National Statement and addressed current geopolitical and economic pressures. She reassured participants that, despite these conditions, "the momentum for renewables has not stalled; on the contrary, it has strengthened."

Global South renewable energy support and climate justice

Beyond domestic projects, the Minister underlined the UAE’s focus on sustainable development in the Global South. She highlighted the launch of the "AI for Development Initiative," a US$1 billion fund that supports technology projects in Africa. The programme seeks to speed up the use of AI in sectors such as infrastructure and agriculture.

Dr. Al Dahak also pointed to long-term UAE partnerships with Small Island Developing States. She spoke during a high-level session on "Women in Diplomacy and Renewables," which focused on the specific needs of SIDS. She argued that climate responses must address those most exposed to climate risks and ensure that women are part of decision-making.

She said climate justice cannot be viewed as complete without the inclusion of women in vulnerable communities. According to Dr. Al Dahak, the UAE’s cooperation with SIDS is grounded in development outcomes. Existing funds have supported renewable energy in island states to improve reliability, lower costs and build resilience against climate-linked disruptions.

{TABLE_1}

Dr. Al Dahak cited two key mechanisms backing these efforts: the US$50 million UAE-Pacific Partnership Fund and the US$50 million UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund. These programmes have strengthened energy security in 16 Caribbean island countries through renewable energy projects. She presented them as examples of practical collaboration that connects climate goals with local needs.

She linked energy and water security with social inclusion, saying, "Our collective task is to align these pillars—energy, water, and women’s empowerment." She added: "We look forward to continuing this strategic dialogue as Abu Dhabi hosts the UN Water Conference this coming December, recognising water as a driver of peace and development."

The Minister added that cooperation remains central to the UAE’s strategy. She stated, "The UAE stands ready to work with all partners—SIDS, IRENA, Italy, and the broader international community—to scale up renewable energy, strengthen water security, empower women and youth, and deliver tangible solutions for those who need them most." The message highlighted multi-country alliances.

Youth, AI and renewable energy innovation in the UAE

Addressing younger participants, Dr. Al Dahak opened the "2026 IRENA Youth Forum" at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. She described youth as the "engineers of new systems." The forum explored how AI is reshaping the energy sector and how the next generation can influence technical and policy choices.

She told students and young professionals, "We stand at a pivotal crossroads where AI is reshaping the energy sector. But technology alone is not the answer; you are the answer. Your passion and courage to challenge the status quo are what we need to ensure technology serves humanity." She encouraged active dialogue with senior officials.

Dr. Al Dahak urged youth attendees to use their time at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week to speak directly with decision-makers. She asked them to pose difficult questions that can drive new approaches and help deploy renewable energy at scale. The comments stressed shared responsibility between institutions and upcoming generations.

Concluding her participation, the Minister invited all delegations to engage in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which follows the Assembly and runs until January 15, 2026, under the theme "The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go." She said the strong international presence in Abu Dhabi confirms the UAE’s role as a hub for innovation and as a reliable partner on inclusive sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM