DUBAI, 18th September, 2024 (WAM) -- Ryan McPherson, Regional Director, Middle East and Africa at the Energy Industries Council (EIC), hailed the UAE's rapid progress in clean energy.

He highlighted the nation's bold, all-encompassing strategy that harnesses solar, wind, green hydrogen, and carbon capture technologies, positioning the UAE as a leader in the global shift towards sustainable energy.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), McPherson said the UAE has shown a strong commitment to expanding its portfolio of renewable energy projects, adding seven renewable energy projects worth $2.16bn between the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024. "These projects include a variety of renewable technologies including energy from waste and geothermal energy," he said.

McPherson noted that by the end of this year, the UAE will have 13 solar power projects up and running, contributing 10.6 GW to the nation's energy grid by 2024. "With its year-round solar potential, the UAE is set to expand its investments in solar energy, ensuring it meets its ambitious clean energy targets on schedule."

McPherson pointed out the UAE's ambitious goal of producing 1.4 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2031, positioning it among the global leaders in green and blue hydrogen production. He noted that these initiatives align with the UAE's vision to become a global hydrogen powerhouse, with a strong focus on large-scale projects and cutting-edge technologies to promote hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source.

He highlighted that the UAE is striving for a diverse energy mix under its "Energy Strategy 2050," with a massive $54 billion (AED200 billion) budget allocated until 2030. "This investment underscores the UAE's commitment to a more sustainable future."

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