Feasibility of solar energy as a sustainable renewable resource in the UAE

Autor: Haleem, Dahlia, Kafafy, Raed, Ntantis, Efstratios L.
Zdroj: MRS Energy & Sustainability; September 2024, Vol. 11 Issue: 2 p624-636, 13p
Abstrakt: Abstract: The paper explores the viability of adopting solar energy for electricity generation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a sustainable alternative to the current reliance on natural gas-fired generation. Haleem's research Al-Haleem (The Feasibility of Solar Energy as a Viable Renewable Energy Source in the United Arab Emirates, 2019) indicates that the UAE is well-positioned to integrate solar power, potentially meeting 100% of its 53,180 GWh electricity consumption in 2022 Statista (Consumption of electricity in Dubai from 2013 to 202, 2023) through expansive solar installations. This shift promises a significant annual reduction of 193.5 MtCO2e in emissions. The UAE exhibits essential prerequisites, including abundant land space, robust grid connectivity, existing infrastructure, and a favorable climate, creating a conducive environment for implementing Concentrated Solar Plants (CSP) or Photovoltaic (PV) Plants. PV plants emerge as the preferred option, given their comparable Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) compared to the current natural gas-fired plants. In addition, beyond the immediate environmental benefits, the transition to solar energy in the UAE carries profound economic implications. The nation's heavy reliance on natural gas exposes it to the volatility of global gas prices, making energy costs unpredictable. The integration of solar power offers a stable and consistent energy source and reduces the UAE's vulnerability to external fuel sources, thereby enhancing energy security. Highlights: The shift to solar power in the UAE is expected to significantly reduce emissions and provide a stable energy source, reducing dependence on volatile global gas prices. The country's favorable conditions, such as ample land and strong infrastructure, make it well-suited for solar energy projects, with particularly cost-effective photovoltaic plants. Discussion:

The long-term economic impact of transitioning to solar power remains uncertain, as initial investments and maintenance costs could outweigh immediate financial benefits.

The UAE's reliance on solar power may still leave it vulnerable to technological challenges and supply chain disruptions, raising questions about this energy source's overall stability.

Balancing rapid solar power adoption with preserving natural landscapes and ecosystems poses an environmental and ethical dilemma for sustainable development in the UAE. Graphical abstract:

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