UAE Solar Park Leads Global Renewable Energy Surge

The world is witnessing a renewable energy revolution, and the UAE is at its forefront. According to a recent report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), global renewable capacity surged to a record 582 gigawatts (GW) in 2024, with solar alone contributing 452GW. This momentum is crucial for meeting the UAE Consensus target of tripling renewables to 11.2 terawatts (TW) by 2030. Experts estimate that an annual addition of 1,122GW is needed worldwide to stay on track for these climate goals.

At the heart of the UAE’s renewable push is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, launched in 2012 and managed by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). The solar park has already reached a total capacity of 3,860MW and is on track to surpass 8,000MW by 2030, significantly higher than the initial 5,000MW target. Clean energy now accounts for 21.5% of DEWA’s total capacity, expected to rise to 36% within the decade, cutting over 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

The solar park operates through the innovative Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, combining government vision, private sector investment, and technological expertise. Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, have improved photovoltaic efficiency from 11% to 24%, boosting energy output without expanding the land footprint.

More than just a power project, the solar park is a living laboratory for innovation, supporting Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for green technology. Its sixth phase is underway, and the upcoming seventh phase will add 2,000MW of photovoltaic capacity along with a 1,400MW battery storage system, making it one of the largest solar-plus-storage projects worldwide.

The park has already made global headlines for its fourth phase, a 950MW milestone comprising 700MW of concentrated solar power (CSP) and 250MW of PV. This phase earned four Guinness World Records, including the tallest CSP tower at 263.126 meters, the largest thermal energy storage facility, and the longest continuous CSP operation of 39 days.

With these initiatives, the UAE continues to set benchmarks in renewable energy innovation, combining economic efficiency with sustainability while inspiring global clean energy development.