2017 saw the launch of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 – the first unified energy strategy in the country that is based on supply and demand. The strategy aims to increase the contribution of clean energy to the total energy mix from 25 per cent to 50 per cent by 2050, and reduce the carbon footprint of power generation by 70 per cent, thus saving AED700 billion by 2050. It also seeks to boost the consumption efficiency of individuals and corporates by 40 per cent.

The strategy targets an energy mix that combines renewable, nuclear and clean energy sources to meet the UAE’s economic requirements and environmental goals as follows:

44% clean energy

38% gas

12% clean coal

6% nuclear power

The UAE government aims to invest AED600 billion by 2050 to meet the growing energy demand and drive the sustainable growth of the country’s economy.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the strategy during a discussion about the future of energy, organised by the Ministry of Energy in cooperation with the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future.

The strategy is a joint effort of all energy-related authorities and executive councils in the UAE, and falls under the supervision of the federal government, represented by the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “Ensuring the sustainability of energy resources is a guarantee of sustainable growth in our country. He who does not think of energy is not thinking about the future.”

He added: “Countries of the GCC region are similar in their economic structure, and we hope that we will one day have a unified GCC energy strategy in order to ensure sustainable growth for our people and global influence for our economies.”