In a significant move that underscores its leadership in the energy sector, the United Arab Emirates has announced its presidency of the Global Energy Efficiency Coalition for the next three years. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to enhancing energy efficiency on an international scale and represents a unique phase in efforts to promote sustainability and cooperation among various stakeholders.
The Official Announcement and Coalition Arrangements
The UAE, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, announced its leadership of the Global Energy Efficiency Coalition for the next three years and the establishment of the coalition’s secretariat. This announcement followed the UAE’s hosting of a high-level roundtable during the World Government Summit held in February in Dubai. During this summit, the general framework of the coalition was discussed with the participation of several countries, international organizations, private sector representatives, and financial institutions.
Enhancing International Cooperation
Through its leadership of this ambitious coalition, the UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to spearheading international efforts to enhance energy efficiency across all sectors. The coalition aims to activate cooperation among governments, the private sector, financial institutions, and research and innovation centers. The goal is to accelerate the transition to more efficient and sustainable energy systems.
The Role of the Secretariat in the Coalition
His Excellency Engineer Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, stated that the UAE’s presidency of the Global Energy Efficiency Coalition reflects the international community’s confidence in its ability to coordinate and lead. He emphasized that the secretariat will play a pivotal role in developing policies, supporting knowledge and experience exchange, and enhancing financing and innovation opportunities, enabling member countries to achieve their national and international energy efficiency targets.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Al Olama noted that this coalition serves as a unifying platform to accelerate the achievement of the global goal of doubling the rate of energy efficiency. He welcomed partners from around the world to join and collaborate for a more sustainable and efficient future. He also pointed out that the coalition’s objectives include a radical improvement in energy consumption efficiency across various fields such as buildings, transportation, and industry, with the aim of doubling energy efficiency rates annually by 2030. This aligns with the historic “UAE Agreement” announced during the COP28 climate change conference in Expo Dubai.