Dubai's Solar Revolution: How is Dubai on the road to renewable energy?

Dubai, a city synonymous with innovation and progress, is set to make even more significant strides in the realm of renewable energy, with a focus on solar power. From being an innovative, and active city in working towards sustainable changes, now Dubai is on the road to renewable energy.

The city's commitment to sustainable practices is evident in its rooftop photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity, which, under the Shams Dubai programme, generated an impressive cumulative capacity of 500 megawatts (MW) in 2022! Yes, that’s a lot!

So, here’s everything we know about Dubai’s road to renewable energy…

Dubai’s energy diversification strategy goes beyond just focusing on solar power, it also encompasses hydropower, green hydrogen, and other clean sources. All of these innovations also come in line with Dubai's overarching clean energy strategy, the ultimate objective is – to derive 100% of the city's energy requirements from clean sources by 2050. Clean sources could be solar panels!

Dr. Aaesha Alnuaimi, the Director of the Innovation Centre at the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), recently shared her insights during the first Middle East and North Africa Solar Conference (MENA-SC) 2023 in Dubai. She emphasised that DEWA is meticulously working on a clear roadmap for the implementation and deployment of solar projects across Dubai. One shining example of this is the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which has become a beacon of Dubai's commitment to clean energy.

In case you didn’t know - The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is currently a powerhouse installed with a production capacity of nearly 2,700 MW. This accomplishment captures the clean energy's share in Dubai's electricity production to over 16% of the total capacity.

And this has surpassed the 7% solar energy target which was set in 2020, Dubai achieved an impressive 9%, setting the stage for an ambitious goal and plans for a 25% solar contribution by 2030!

On the other hand, another highlight in solar energy is the MENA-SC 2023, a conference that took place this year from November 15 to 18. This conference was held in line with the Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) and Dubai Solar Show 2023, all of these showcased Dubai's endeavours in all areas of photovoltaics.

Organised by DEWA, the MENA-SC delved into many different aspects of photovoltaics, including materials and devices, future technologies, reliability, and forecasting for performance assessment. The discussions extended to critical areas like system operation, concentrated solar power, and grid integration – all pivotal components in propelling the green energy transformation.

One noteworthy aspect during the conference was the potential benefits of perovskite solar cells. Many experts spoke on how these advanced solar cells could enhance photovoltaic systems, particularly in adapting to the unique climate conditions prevalent in the Middle East.

As Dubai marches forward on the road to renewables, the city not only envisions a sustainable future but is actively shaping it. The amalgamation of innovative projects, strategic goals, and concerted efforts positions Dubai at the forefront of the global clean energy revolution.

Impressive, isn’t it?

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