UAE & Spain Enhance Clean Energy Ties After High-Level Visit

In a move to reinforce the UAE’s leadership in renewable energy, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) joined forces with Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) to lead a high-level delegation to Spain. The primary goal was to build strategic partnerships with global research institutions and assess emerging technologies in solar power and energy storage, key components in the UAE’s journey toward a fair and sustainable energy transition.

Leadership and Vision Behind the Initiative

The delegation was spearheaded by His Excellency Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MOEI, alongside Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE. This initiative reflects the joint vision of both organizations to foster innovation, develop future-ready infrastructure, and collaborate with global leaders in the energy sector.

Driving the UAE's Clean Energy Transition

This international mission aligns with the UAE’s national agenda to speed up its transition to clean energy. It also supports efforts to modernize infrastructure and implement global best practices, reinforcing the country’s status as a regional hub for sustainable technologies and advanced energy solutions.

Advancing the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Park

For EtihadWE, the visit is instrumental in accelerating the development of the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Park in Ras Al Khaimah. This flagship initiative is envisioned as a center for clean energy research and innovation. The company is also tapping into international expertise to enhance the management of high-tech energy hubs.

Collaborating with Spain’s Top Research Institutions

The UAE team engaged with several leading Spanish institutions, including the Centre for Energy, Environmental and Technological Research (CIEMAT). During discussions with CIEMAT's Director-General, Her Excellency Dr. Yolanda Benito Moreno, the delegation explored avenues for joint research across multiple sectors. A tour of CIEMAT’s cutting-edge labs offered insights into the latest scientific breakthroughs and practical applications in renewable energy.

Exploring Advanced Solar Technologies at PSA

Another highlight of the visit was a tour of the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), Europe’s most advanced facility for concentrated solar power research. Here, the delegation reviewed thermal energy storage technologies and desert-environment simulation systems—critical areas for potential collaboration with the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Park.

Showcasing Round-the-Clock Renewable Power at Gemasolar

The team also visited the Gemasolar Thermosolar Plant, a pioneering solar facility known for using thermal storage to generate electricity 24/7. This project stands as a model for sustainable, uninterrupted power generation and resonates strongly with MOEI and EtihadWE’s goal to increase renewable energy integration within the UAE’s national grid.

Laying the Foundation for Long-Term Partnerships

This visit was part of a broader effort by MOEI and EtihadWE to build lasting partnerships with world-class research organizations. These collaborations will support the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, while also equipping Emirati professionals with exposure to cutting-edge global innovations in renewable energy.