The Emirates Water and Electricity Co. (EWEC) has recently taken another significant step towards renewable energy: Four new sites in Abu Dhabi have been secured to develop projects with a capacity of 4.6 GW for solar and wind energy. These projects, covering an area of 75 square kilometers, are a central part of Abu Dhabi's Clean Energy Strategic Target 2035 and the overarching goal of the United Arab Emirates to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The planned facilities include three large solar power plants in Al Faya, Al Khazna, and Al Zarraf with a capacity of 4.5 GW, as well as a 140-MW wind farm in Sila. EWEC has ambitious goals: By 2030, 10 GW of photovoltaic capacity is to be installed, and by 2035 even 18 GW. Supported by innovative technologies, government incentives, and investments, the country is showing a clear direction: away from fossil fuels towards a clean, sustainable energy future.
Europe in comparison: Lagging behind in the energy transition?
While the United Arab Emirates is advancing with ambitious projects and clear goals, Europe is showing increasing hesitation. Despite significant progress in expanding renewable energy, bureaucratic hurdles, lack of investment, and political disagreement seem to slow down implementation. In particular, Austria, Germany, and other European countries lack consistent implementation of funding programs and the simplification of approval procedures.
The success in Abu Dhabi demonstrates that ambitious goals combined with decisive action are crucial. Europe should take these examples as a model and implement more comprehensive measures at both the national and EU levels to meet its climate targets on time.
What can we do? Small steps with a big impact
Even though large projects are impressive, the energy transition begins with each individual. Particularly in Austria, there is currently an attractive opportunity to contribute: balcony power plants. These small solar systems for self-consumption are not only easy to install but also tax-advantaged – but only until the end of 2025.
By investing in a balcony power plant, you can reduce your electricity costs while simultaneously making an active contribution to climate protection. It may be a small step, but collectively, such measures can have a significant impact.
Seize the opportunity to be part of the energy transition and benefit from the current tax incentives. Because every contribution counts – for our future and for a more sustainable world.
