Energy investment to touch $175b in 2024, of which clean energy to constitute around 15%
DUBAI: Energy investment in the Middle East is undergoing a transformative shift, with a projected $175 billion investment in 2024, of which clean energy is expected to constitute around 15%.
The shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of transitioning towards sustainable energy sources in a region historically dominated by fossil fuels.
The Middle East, renowned for its abundant oil and gas reserves, is home to key players in the global energy landscape such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE, Iran, and Kuwait.
While fossil fuel investments still dominate the energy sector, there is a noticeable increase in commitments towards clean energy technologies.
However, there are significant disparities in per capita income, energy consumption levels, and sovereign credit ratings across the region, highlighting the diverse economic landscape of the Middle East.
The International Energy Agency’s (IEA) World Energy Investment report underscores the pivotal role of clean energy investment in shaping the region’s energy future. While fossil fuel investment prevails, there is a notable shift towards cleaner alternatives.
The announced pledges for 2030 suggest a substantial increase in clean energy investment, potentially tripling compared to 2024 figures. This trajectory signifies a transition towards a more balanced energy portfolio, where clean energy plays a more significant role in the overall investment landscape.
Five countries in the Middle East have set ambitious net-zero emission targets, indicating a commitment to mitigating climate change and reducing carbon footprints.
Countries like the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait have announced targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 or 2060. These pledges signal a proactive approach towards environmental sustainability and align with global efforts to combat climate change.
Opportunities in power sector
The region’s power sector presents a unique opportunity for clean energy investments, particularly in solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies.
Countries like Saudi Arabia are ambitiously targeting substantial renewable capacity by 2030, signaling a shift towards renewable energy sources. Notable projects such as the Al Shuaibah solar plant in Saudi Arabia and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum solar park in the UAE exemplify the region’s commitment to expanding clean energy infrastructure.
In addition to renewable energy projects, various countries in the Middle East are intensifying investments in critical minerals and hydrogen technologies.
Initiatives such as Saudi Arabia’s mineral exploration incentive program and the UAE’s strategic partnerships in mining illustrate a broader commitment to diversifying the energy sector beyond traditional fossil fuels. Investments in green and blue hydrogen technologies further underscore the region’s efforts to embrace alternative energy sources.
Despite progress in clean energy investments, challenges persist in the Middle East’s transition towards sustainable energy. Economic disparities, geopolitical complexities, and technological limitations pose hurdles to a seamless energy transition.
Overcoming these challenges will require concerted efforts from governments, industry stakeholders, and international partners to accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions.
