UAE Renewable Energy Capacity Surges 63-Fold in a Decade, Targeting 35% Clean Energy Share by 2031

The UAE has experienced a dramatic increase in its renewable energy capacity, which grew by over 63-fold in the last decade. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, reported that capacity surged from 129 MW in 2015 to more than 8.2 GW in 2025.

Clean Energy Contribution and Future Targets

In 2025, clean energy sources contributed 32.4% of the UAE's total electricity generation, with the country aiming to boost this share to 35% by 2031. This reflects significant progress in diversifying the energy mix. Total installed clean energy capacity, including nuclear, photovoltaic, concentrated solar power, wind, and waste-to-energy projects, reached 13,805 MW, generating over 62.4 GWh of electricity.

Overall electricity generation in 2025 stood at 192,735 GWh, surpassing consumption of 174,524 GWh. This demonstrates ongoing efforts to strengthen grid resilience and meet growing demand.

Advancements in Grid Management

Key to this expansion is the Emirates Monitoring Centre, a national facility that provides real-time monitoring of the UAE’s integrated power network by connecting all four electricity utilities. The centre's second phase included a renewable energy management study developed in collaboration with Siemens, aimed at enhancing grid monitoring and coordination.

Beyond electricity generation, the UAE is also pursuing broader green transition initiatives. These include projects for electric and hybrid vehicle battery recycling, green industrial development, advanced clean-energy solutions, and resource efficiency. Two pilot projects are specifically supporting the expansion of electric transport.

Al Olama affirmed the ministry's commitment to continued collaboration with federal and local authorities, national companies, and the private sector to further develop the electricity market, expand clean energy infrastructure, and strengthen grid interconnection. These efforts are designed to ensure energy security, improve system efficiency, and meet the rising economic and population demands while advancing national sustainability and climate-neutrality goals.