Is the United Arab Emirates a hot spot for solar energy development?

The United Arab Emirates has emerged rapidly as a hot spot for solar energy development and has invested heavily in solar projects as part of its broader economic program of diversification away from fossil fuel exports.

Does the United Arab Emirates have solar power?

While being a major oil producing country, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken steps to introduce solar power on a large scale. However, solar power still accounts for a small share of energy production in the country.

Why is Solar Energy Limited in the UAE?

Although solar energy is abundant in the UAE and its surrounding areas, power generation from this resource is still limited because of the seasonal variability of the solar irradiance and the deterioration of the performance of the solar energy systems (SES).

Is solar energy an essential part of the UAE's energy mix?

In addition to these drivers, a good exposure to the sun justifies why solar energy has dominated those activities . The aim of this research is to review and build on the existing knowledge to assess whether solar energy can be an essential part of the UAE’s energy mix.

What is the solar energy resource in the UAE?

Solar energy resource The UAE lies between 22°30′ and 26°10′ north latitude and between 51 0 and 56 0 25′ east longitude which gives an indication of its good solar energy exposure. However, high concentrations of airborne dust particles and high humidity tend to diffuse and attenuate the intensity of solar irradiance.

Is the UAE a solar energy exporter?

With a strong solar resource and low population density, the UAE has taken steps toward becoming a “solar energy exporter” through a variety of efforts. Within the region, UAE is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority, which links the power grids of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait.