emirates7 - Ryan McPherson, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa at the Energy Industries Council (EIC), has praised the UAE for its rapid advancements in clean energy.

McPherson emphasized the UAE's comprehensive strategy that leverages solar, wind, green hydrogen, and carbon capture technologies, firmly positioning the nation as a leader in the global transition to sustainable energy.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), he highlighted the UAE's strong commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio, with seven new projects valued at $2.16 billion set to launch between the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024. "These projects encompass a diverse range of renewable technologies, including energy from waste and geothermal energy," McPherson noted.

By the end of this year, the UAE is expected to have 13 operational solar power projects, contributing 10.6 GW to the national energy grid by 2024. “Thanks to its year-round solar potential, the UAE is poised to enhance its solar energy investments, ensuring the nation meets its ambitious clean energy targets on schedule.”

McPherson also highlighted the UAE's goal of producing 1.4 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2031, positioning it among the world leaders in green and blue hydrogen production. These initiatives are aligned with the UAE's vision of becoming a global hydrogen powerhouse, focusing on large-scale projects and innovative technologies to promote hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source.

Under its "Energy Strategy 2050," the UAE aims for a diverse energy mix with a substantial budget of $54 billion (AED 200 billion) allocated until 2030. “This investment highlights the UAE's commitment to a more sustainable future,” McPherson stated.

He concluded that these strategies provide a clear roadmap for increasing the nation’s reliance on renewable energy and advancing hydrogen technologies.