Why this is important to Wisconsin businesses: Wisconsin companies may be able to contribute expertise in water technology and clean energy.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) wants to establish itself as a global leader in sustainable energy, water treatment technologies, and bioenergy.
Through initiatives such as UAE Vision 2021 and UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the government is embarking on large-scale projects to diversify its energy supplies and to extend its limited water resources.
One of the UAE’s goals is to use 50% clean energy by 2050. To accomplish that, projects such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai are underway. One of the largest solar power developments worldwide, the project will use both photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies. Concentrated solar power uses mirrors to reflect and concentrate sunlight onto a receiver. The thermal energy produced can be used to generate electricity or in a variety of industrial processes.
Nuclear energy is also part of the mix. The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi is the first of its kind in the Arab world. It is expected to supply up to 25% of the UAE’s electricity needs.
In addition, the UAE has invested in green hydrogen research and production, including a collaboration with Siemens on hydrogen projects.
Water scarcity is a critical issue for the UAE, with its limited freshwater resources. The UAE’s Water Security Strategy 2036 lays out initiatives such as aquifer recharge, treated wastewater reuse, and rain enhancement research. Goals include reducing water use by 21%, boosting the reuse of treated water to 95% by 2036, and developing water storage capacity that can serve the population for up to 45 days during emergencies.
The UAE government has invested in advanced water treatment and desalination technologies such as the Taweelah Reverse Osmosis (RO) Desalination Plant near Abu Dhabi. The world’s largest facility of its kind, it is expected to produce about 909,000 cubic meters of water per day using energy-efficient RO technology.
In addition, bioenergy projects, such as the Etihad Biogas Facility, use organic waste to generate renewable energy while partnerships with local research institutions and international bioenergy firms support advancements in algae biofuel, an area with promising applications for aviation and other high-energy industries.
Wisconsin companies with novel technologies for sustainable energy and water treatment may find opportunities in the UAE.
