Abu Dhabi (Al-Ittihad) – A UAE delegation, led by Engineer Sherif Al-Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, visited Hong Kong and the Republic of Korea as part of the UAE’s efforts to enhance international cooperation in the fields of energy and water. Determined to strengthen this collaboration, the visit is part of the UAE’s initiatives to build strategic partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and enhance energy security.
Meetings with Hong Kong Officials
The delegation began its tour with a visit to Hong Kong International Airport, where they were briefed on the airport’s innovative sustainability agenda, which includes operating the largest battery energy storage system in Hong Kong, expanding rooftop solar energy capabilities, and utilizing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Discussions also covered the integration of smart airport technologies based on artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles. The delegation was welcomed by Vivian Cheung, CEO of the Hong Kong Airport Authority, where opportunities for cooperation between the UAE and Hong Kong in the fields of sustainable aviation fuel production and supply chain development were explored.
The UAE’s Perspectives on Sustainability
Engineer Sherif Al-Olama emphasized that the UAE and Hong Kong share a unified vision for building sustainable infrastructure, with airports serving as a key driver of economic growth. He noted the Hong Kong Airport Authority’s increased investments in renewable energy and energy storage, efforts that align with the UAE’s goals to achieve climate neutrality. Referring to Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, he stated that they play an active role in adopting sustainable aviation fuel as part of the broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Future Energy Partnerships
The delegation also visited “Tellus Power,” a global leader in designing and developing electric vehicle charging solutions. During the meetings, both parties discussed areas for future collaboration, particularly in the development of electric charging stations. In this context, Al-Olama spoke about the importance of expanding ultra-fast charging technology and applying smart charging solutions.
Water Cooperation with Korea
In a related context, Sherif Al-Olama, during his participation in the “CEM” Energy Ministers Forum held in Busan, Korea, reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting global efforts for a safe and resilient transition to a low-carbon energy system. He noted that water projects aim to develop sustainable water sources through membrane desalination technologies and increase the integration of renewable energy. Al-Olama explained that UAE-Korea cooperation in the water sector is a model for international integration in addressing climate change.
On the sidelines of the visit, Al-Olama met with officials from “Fuel Cell Innovations – FCI” in Korea to discuss collaboration opportunities in hydrogen production and carbon capture. Additionally, Al-Olama held discussions with Korea Electric Power Corporation “KEPCO” regarding the management of electric grid stability and its regulatory role in the electric vehicle charging station sector.