New Delhi: The UAE has launched the world’s first renewable energy facility capable of providing uninterrupted clean power, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Masdar Chairman Dr. Sultan Al Jaber announced at the opening ceremony of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025. The project integrates 5.2 GW of solar capacity with 19 GW hours of storage to deliver 1 GW of baseload renewable energy.
Dr. Al Jaber made the announcement in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, alongside 13 heads of state and over 140 ministers and government officials. The facility is a partnership with the Emirates Water and Electricity Company and addresses the challenge of renewable energy intermittency.
Energy demand growth and AI
Dr. Al Jaber highlighted that global energy demand is projected to rise from 9,000 GW to over 15,000 GW by 2035, driven by the rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He noted that AI applications, such as ChatGPT, are accelerating energy consumption, which could push demand to 35,000 GW by 2050.
“No single energy source can meet this unprecedented demand,” he said, stressing the need for diversified energy options to ensure security and access.
UAE’s energy and technological leadership
Dr. Al Jaber outlined the UAE’s achievements in energy, technology, and space under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He pointed to milestones such as the Barakah nuclear plant, large-scale wind and solar projects, and the establishment of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.
He also highlighted the UAE’s progress in space exploration, including its Mars mission and upcoming asteroid belt mission with the MBR Explorer.
Launch of XRG and energy access
The UAE also announced the launch of XRG, an energy investment company focusing on gas, chemicals, low-carbon fuels, and energy infrastructure to address global energy demands. Dr. Al Jaber emphasized the importance of ensuring energy access for one billion people globally while balancing sustainability.
“We need an ‘and-and’ approach to energy access and sustainability,” he said.
Zayed sustainability prize
The event included the Zayed Sustainability Prize ceremony, recognizing innovations improving lives globally. Dr. Al Jaber noted that the prize has enabled access to clean water, solar-powered education, and sustainable farming, continuing the legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
ADSW 2025, the first major global event of the year, brought together stakeholders to discuss strategies for addressing energy challenges and advancing a low-carbon future.
