IEA and Abu Dhabi strengthen cooperation with new memorandum of understanding focused on energy transition

The International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DOE) today signed their second memorandum of understanding, extending cooperation between the two institutions as the Emirate of Abu Dhabi looks to accelerate its energy transition.

Key areas of cooperation include improving energy efficiency and managing demand for electricity, developing hydrogen production and transport, and integrating renewables into the grid. For the first time, cooperation will also focus on supporting the DOE as it implements local climate adaptation programmes.

The agreement was signed at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai by the IEA Deputy Executive Director Mary Burce Warlick and Abu Dhabi DOE Chairman Awaidha Murshed Ali Al Marar.

The IEA and the Abu Dhabi DOE first formalised cooperation on energy and climate issues in 2019. Abu Dhabi aims to generate more than 60% of its power from low-emission sources by 2035, which would contribute significantly to the United Arab Emirates’ efforts to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

“The steps Abu Dhabi has taken so far to decarbonise its power sector are encouraging. The Emirate’s development of low-emissions energy solutions has accelerated in recent years, driving progress towards its climate goals while increasing its overall economic competitiveness,” Ambassador Warlick said. “The IEA is ready to support Abu Dhabi in its important contribution to the United Arab Emirates’ crucial journey to net zero.”

“These agreements are instrumental in furthering our aim to develop the right policies and projects that will accelerate the global energy transition, while also ensuring the best possible socio-economic outcomes, so that nobody is left behind,” Chairman Al Marar said. “We look forward to working more closely with our international friends and peers to unlock the UAE’s full potential to power a sustainable energy industry to the benefit of all.”