November 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
About Mesia Foreword
- Solar Innovation for 1.5°C Goal 06
- Green Hydrogen 12
- MENA Solar Supply Chain 14
- MENA-EU Collaboration 20
- Optimizing MENA Solar Efficiency 25
- Solar PV Performance 30
- AI Applications in the Solar Energy Sector 35
- ESS Impact on PV Power Plants 39
- Solar Panel Reliability 49
- Electric Vehicles 56
- Solar-Powered Desalination 60
- PV Inspection 62
- Highlights in Selected Solar PV MESA Markets 69The Evolving Renewable Energy Landscape in the MENA Region 69
- Afghanistan 76
- Egypt 78
- India 80
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 83
- Kuwait 86
- Syria 89
- United Arab Emirates 92
- Yemen 95
- Experts Insights: Our Region post COP 28 98
- Glossary of Terms 102
- Board members and team 105
FOREWORD
In 2023, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is at the forefront of sustainable initiatives, marked by its commitment to declaring 2023 as “The Year of Sustainability.” This dedication underscores the nation’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in addressing the critical issues outlined by the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. As anticipation builds for the UAE hosting COP28, the world looks to the region with expectations of meaningful climate change mitigation commitments.
A pivotal focus of the UAE’s journey is the ascendant prominence of green hydrogen. This report thoroughly investigates green hydrogen, exploring its production and its transformative impact on the UAE’s energy landscape. Notably, it highlights the potential for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to become exporters of this clean energy source. However, challenges persist, especially in the transportation sector, as green hydrogen establishes its presence in the market.
Denisa Fainis
Secretary General MESIA
ADNOC’s carbon credits program, anchored by the Habshan Carbon Capture facility, exemplifies the UAE’s environmental stewardship. The collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in orchestrating the world’s largest sale of voluntary carbon credits through the Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC) further underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovative solutions that intertwine economic growth and sustainability.
The region’s audacious plan to add 209 GW of solar PV capacity propels the transition to renewable energy, positioning the Middle East as a global leader in green hydrogen production for export. This move not only diversifies national economies but also contributes to a more sustainable global energy landscape. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE lead the charge in utilizing solar power for desalination, addressing vital regional water security concerns and emphasizing regional cooperation for a more water-secure future.
Innovations in asset management revolutionize the efficiency and sustainability of utility-scale solar plants, with manned aircraft and drones, equipped with AI and machine learning capabilities, transforming the inspection process. Concurrently, the Middle East makes significant strides in electric vehicle (EV) deployment, powered by solar-produced energy, showcasing a robust commitment to e-mobility and reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector.
As the UAE charts its course toward sustainability, it sets an inspiring example for the region and the world. This report, serving as a compass for policymakers, businesses, and individuals navigating the dynamic landscape of solar energy and sustainability, expresses gratitude to our expert contributors. Their insights serve as a guiding light for foreign investors and market analysts, offering objective information crucial for making critical decisions in this rapidly evolving sector.
Acknowledging the contributions of expert contributors, this report extends an invitation to collaborate and explore new horizons in the solar energy landscape. The commitments of Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Syria, and Yemen to renewable energy are also examined, each grappling with unique challenges and opportunities.
Afghanistan aspires to generate 40% of its electricity from solar energy by 2032, with a distributed generation market showing promise despite setbacks in utility-scale projects. Egypt aims for 8,778 MW of solar capacity by 2022 and a 50% renewable energy share by 2035, showcasing commitment amid economic reforms. India makes significant strides toward its goal of 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, supported by regulatory updates and innovations fostering widespread solar adoption.
Saudi Arabia targets 40 GW of solar power by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, with recent regulatory amendments signaling a promising shift. Kuwait faces challenges in achieving its 15% renewable energy target by 2030 but shows potential with regulatory amendments and resumed projects. Syria, amid an electricity crisis, sees growth in distributed generation, while political reconciliation offers hope for large-scale solar projects.
The UAE, with its remarkable 25,000% increase in solar capacity from 2012 to 2022, showcases its commitment through initiatives like financing programs and strategic projects. Yemen, grappling with an electricity crisis, presents opportunities for growth in its solar sector, emphasizing the need for support and investment.
In conclusion, the Middle East’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy is evident across nations, with each contributing to a more sustainable global energy landscape. The journey toward a greener future is intricate, but with dedication, collaboration, and innovative solutions, these nations are paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.
Our profound thanks go to our expert contributors for their invaluable insights, serving as a guiding light for foreign investors and market analysts. Their expertise is an open invitation to collaborate and explore new horizons in the solar energy landscape. We express our gratitude to the MESIA team for identifying topics that provide value to our members and readers, showcasing unwavering support in our collective pursuit of a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
full report: https://mesia.com/research-papers-reports