UAE's Bold Leap Towards Electric Future
The Future of UAE: Network of Fast and Superfast Electric Chargers
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has entered a new phase in sustainability and environmental protection. Suhail Al Mazrouei, the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, announced that the country plans to install only fast and superfast electric vehicle chargers. The aim of the decision is to ensure cleaner air and lower carbon emissions in the UAE, while making the benefits of electric transport accessible to the entire population.
Speed and Efficiency: New Charging Standards
One of the most important factors in the spread of electric vehicles (EVs) is the quality of the charging infrastructure. "We do not want to offer just any chargers; charging speed is the most important consideration for users," Al Mazrouei said. The tariff for fast chargers is 1.20 dirhams/kWh (+VAT), while for AC chargers, the price is 0.70 dirhams/kWh (+VAT). Additionally, charging services are currently free to encourage the use of electric vehicles.
The installation of chargers will primarily take place in shopping malls and residential areas, with particular attention to converting public transport vehicles to electric. The UAE's state-owned electric charging network company, UAEV, is already developing many such systems, and the market is open to other players as well.
Clean Energy and Future Technologies
The minister highlighted that the country's increasing use of solar, nuclear, and hydrogen energy significantly contributes to air cleanliness. The UAE currently produces 6 GW of solar and 5.9 GW of nuclear energy, already complying with global sustainability goals. Masdar's new project, which will introduce a 24/7 solar-based battery storage system, is expected to add an additional 5 GW of capacity.
Al Mazrouei mentioned that the country's goal is to reach 15 GW of solar energy production by 2030, but based on current developments, it is likely to exceed this forecast. "The proportion of our clean energy sources could increase to 30% of the total energy mix," he added.
Hydrogen: The Key to a New Era of Energy
The UAE is a pioneer in hydrogen energy, with two major companies joining the international hydrogen alliance. Adnoc aims to cover 5% of the global hydrogen market while producing more than 2 million tons of blue ammonia annually, which can be converted into hydrogen. Although the production cost of green hydrogen remains challenging, with new technologies, the price has significantly reduced from $10 to $5-6 per kilogram.
UAE's Cleaner Future
The country is committed to sustainability and innovation. The development of new charging networks, the widespread application of renewable energies, and hydrogen-based technology advancements all contribute to ensuring the UAE remains one of the most livable places in the world. In the words of the energy minister: "All signs point to us being on the path to sustainability, and this is extremely encouraging."
