UAE Recognised As Exceptional Hub For Renewable Energy Projects By International Officials

International officials at the 15th IRENA Assembly have highlighted the UAE's leadership in energy transition projects. These initiatives aim to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. During the meetings in Abu Dhabi, part of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, they noted the UAE's role as a leader in solar and photovoltaic projects. The country is recognised as a hub for renewable energy production.

Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council, praised the UAE's collaboration with governments and companies across the Middle East. This partnership aims to meet global renewable energy targets, focusing on photovoltaic solar energy and storage. She stated that the UAE's projects enhance its national and GCC renewable energy portfolio, reflecting its leadership's ambition.

Dunlop also mentioned that around 600 gigawatts of solar energy were delivered globally in 2024. She expects demand for solar-generated electricity to surpass 650 gigawatts this year. Despite progress, she noted that more projects are needed in the GCC and broader Middle East to meet global targets.

The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week events, running until 18 January, highlight global ambitions for sustainable energy goals. Dunlop emphasised the importance of this event and the UAE's role in leading renewable energy deployment from its capital to the world. This participation underscores efforts to advance sustainable energy objectives globally.

Jakob Lau Holst, CEO of the Global Wind Organisation (GWO), sees Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week as a chance to raise awareness about expanding renewable energy sources. He aims to attract more skills and technicians from both the UAE and abroad by showcasing GWO's work during this event.

Training and Collaboration

Holst explained that GWO has trained many renewable energy technicians from the Middle East, totalling around 590 from 50 countries. Given limited wind energy use in Middle Eastern countries, GWO is working with the Global Solar Council to expand its network in the region. They aim to enhance collaboration with solar communities and introduce training standards for solar energy.

The GWO will participate in several workshops during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, including one focused on scaling up renewable energy sources. Holst looks forward to these opportunities to build awareness and attract talent to the global renewable sector.

The UAE continues to lead regional efforts in renewable energy through significant projects and collaborations. Its initiatives contribute significantly towards achieving global targets for increased renewable capacity by 2030.

With inputs from WAM