Christmas Island solar energy middle east

Could solar power help the Middle East?

Experts say solar could help ― it is cost-competitive, it is quicker to install and can be deployed either at scale for large communities, or in a modular way on rooftops, or for small factories. Some Middle East countries have a natural advantage when it comes to meeting power demand, harnessing their massive wealth of natural resources.

How many MW of solar are planned in the Northern Emirates?

Northern Emirates Up to 300 MW of solar are planned in the Northern Emirates. Ras Al Khaimah Municipality announced its new renewable energy and energy eficiency program, including a target of 25-30% clean energy capacity by 2040. Also, FEWA and the emirate of Umm Al-Quwain signed an agreement for the development of a 200 MW solar park.

How much electricity does Tunisia use?

The national consumption of electricity in Tunisia has slightly increased between 2017 and 2018, from almost 15.6 GWh to 15.8 GWh. At the end of 2018, renewable energy represented 5.7% of the national energy production capacity (240 MW Wind, 10 MW Solar, 60 MW Hydro).

Which countries have the highest solar energy potential?

With countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Morocco, and Egypt leading the charge, the MENA region now boasts one of the world's highest levels of solar energy potential, with average annual solar irradiance exceeding 2,000 kWh per square meter per year.

Should Iraq and Jordan increase solar power?

Iraq, however, needs to boost generation by as much as 10 per cent a year. Jordan aims to increase renewable generation — mainly solar power — to 3.2GW by 2025, with a current peak demand of around 3.5GW. That would put the kingdom close to regional solar leaders Egypt, Morocco and the UAE.

Does Saudi Arabia have solar power?

The kingdom has spare capacity, theoretically able to produce up to 90GW, some of which supplies a regional power grid, the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Grid. A field of solar panels at the King Abdulaziz City of Sciences and Technology. Saudi Arabia may finally be tapping its other main resource: sunshine. Photo: Fahad Shadeed