The Growth of Solar Power in the GCC countries in the Middle East

 Across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries of the Middle East, solar power is experiencing a period of rapid growth and deployment. Nations like the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman enjoy high levels of sunlight ideal for photovoltaic energy generation. These countries are looking to solar to meet rising domestic electricity demand, while also diversifying their energy mixes away from oil and gas.

The UAE in particular has emerged as a solar leader in the region. Over the past decade large scale solar plants such as the Al Dhafra Solar Project and Noor Abu Dhabi have launched. Solar now provides a meaningful portion of peak energy needs during hot summer months. Recognizing solar potential, the Emirate of Dubai set an ambitious goal of generating 25% of its power from clean sources by 2030, with solar front and center.

Saudi Arabia also has extensive plans for solar farms nationwide as part of its 2030 Vision. The country aims to install over 27 gigawatts of renewables capacity, with much of that coming from PV. Solar auctions have attracted impressive low bids from developers. Nearby Oman and Bahrain are also constructing utility-scale plants.

As costs fall and technology advances, solar is enabling greater energy independence and attractive investment opportunities across the GCC. With the region's formidable sunlight, solar power looks poised to become an increasingly integral contributor to sustainable, affordable and secure electricity supplies in the decades ahead.