Wednesday 18 January 2017

Half of UAE energy to be low carbon by 2050

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) plans to generate 50% of its energy from low carbon sources by 2050.

This will be made up of 44% renewable power and 6% nuclear, with fossil fuels gas (38%) and 'clean coal' (12%) providing the rest.

The plan was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Emir of Dubai. He said the nation would invest $163 billion by 2050 to meet growing demand and ensure sustainable growth.

The strategy was jointly developed by all energy authorities in the UAE under the supervision of the federal government's energy department and takes forecasted growth of 6% into account.

Nuclear and renewables currently provide 25% of the mix.

Sheikh Mohammed said: "Our new energy plan balances supply and demand, and takes into consideration our international commitments in terms of the environment. It also seeks to ensure a conducive economic environment for growth across sectors."

He added that he aims to see a reduction in the carbon footprint from energy generation by 70% over the next three decades and hopes to cut residential energy consumption by 40%.