UAE deepens climate action as clean energy investments exceed Dh45 billion

 

The UAE has made remarkable strides in boosting clean energy's share in its total energy mix, achieving 27.83% in 2023, as stated by Suhail al-Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. The nation aims to further increase this figure to 32% by 2030.

During a media briefing on September 15, Minister al-Mazrouei emphasized that from 2019 to 2022, the UAE successfully doubled its clean energy capacity as part of the UAE Energy Strategy, which seeks to triple the installed capacity by 2030. The country remains firmly committed to its energy transition goals under the UAE Consensus at COP28. The UAE hosted the annual climate summit in Dubai last November, drawing thousands of participants and advancing efforts in various sustainability areas.

Al-Mazrouei also underscored the UAE’s dedication to fostering investment in clean energy. He noted that the country saw a 70% growth in installed clean energy capacity last year alone. Highlighting the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the Minister pointed to key ongoing projects, including the newly operational fourth reactor at the Barakah Nuclear Plant, which is expected to significantly boost the country’s clean energy output.

Additionally, the UAE Cabinet has approved a policy to regulate the energy services market, promoting collaboration between energy service providers, government bodies, and the private sector. This policy aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.

The UAE continues to play an active role in addressing climate change. Its "Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative" sets a national goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by mid-century, making the UAE the first country in the MENA region to adopt such an ambitious target. This initiative invites global cooperation to develop practical climate solutions, foster multilateralism, and create opportunities for sustainable socio-economic growth.

Furthermore, the UAE’s climate neutrality plan aligns with the 2015 Paris Agreement, which calls on all nations to devise long-term strategies for reducing carbon emissions and limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.