Electricity in United Arab Emirates in 2023

As of 2023, the electricity consumption profile in the United Arab Emirates is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, specifically gas, which accounts for just over 72% of the total electricity generation. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources constitute approximately 28% of the electricity production. Within this low-carbon category, nuclear power is the most significant contributor, delivering nearly 20% of the electricity, while solar energy provides more than 8%. These figures reflect the UAE's ongoing efforts to incorporate more sustainable and clean energy sources into its electricity mix, yet also highlight a significant dependency on fossil fuels, which are known to contribute to climate change and air pollution.

Suggestions

To advance its low-carbon electricity generation, the UAE can focus on expanding its existing nuclear infrastructure, which is already a major source of clean energy for the country. Additionally, looking at international examples can be instructive; countries like France, Slovakia, and Ukraine derive a substantial portion of their electricity from nuclear power, with figures of 68%, 62%, and 55%, respectively. In parallel, the UAE could explore an increased investment in solar energy, taking inspiration from Lebanon, where solar power makes up 31% of the electricity generation. By learning from these countries and scaling up its own initiatives, the UAE can make significant strides in its goal to increase the share of low-carbon electricity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

History

Historically, the UAE's journey toward low-carbon electricity began with solar power in the late 2000s, although initial gains were modest. From 2009 to 2015, solar-generated electricity was negligible, but from 2017 onwards, there was a marked increase in solar capacity, peaking in 2023 with a substantial addition of 6 TWh. Similarly, the introduction of nuclear power in 2020 provided a considerable boost, with nuclear generation increasing dramatically each year. Specifically, nuclear electricity generation jumpstarted with 1.6 TWh in 2020, surging to 12.2 TWh by 2023. The UAE's commitment to expanding low-carbon technologies is evidenced by this consistent growth in both nuclear and solar energy, establishing a strong foundation for a sustainable energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources