Expo City Dubai is set to run entirely on renewable energy, courtesy of Dubai’s Electricity and Water Authority. This sustainable move is in line with the UAE’s ambitious plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The power will be derived from Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, currently boasting a capacity of 2,627 megawatts, projected to reach 4,660MW by 2026. This expansion is expected to result in an annual reduction of over 6.5 million tons of carbon emissions.
The agreement solidifying this energy transition was signed during a ceremony witnessed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai. The accord not only supports Expo City’s role in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan but also reinforces the UAE’s commitment to sustainability.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, developed in key phases by Masdar, will play a crucial role in powering Expo City during the upcoming Cop28 climate change summit on November 30. The solar park’s impressive scale and ambition are reflected in its goal to reach a capacity of 5,000MW by 2030.
UAE has been making substantial investments in renewable energy projects to fulfill its net-zero emissions target by 2050. This includes approving an updated version of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 in November and establishing the National Hydrogen Strategy in July. The country plans to invest Dh200 billion ($54 billion) by 2030 to meet energy demand while ensuring sustainable economic growth. This initiative aligns with the global call to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030 to keep the 1.5ºC degree ambition within reach.
