Abu Dhabi has announced a major step in its clean energy plan. The emirate aims to generate 60 percent of its electricity from clean and renewable sources by 2035. The target is part of a wider push to build a low-emissions economy and improve long-term sustainability in the energy and water sectors.
Officials say environmental sustainability is now a core part of Abu Dhabi’s development strategy. Dr Abdulla Humaid Saif Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, said sustainability is no longer optional. He described it as a key driver for building stronger and more efficient systems that support economic growth while protecting natural resources.
He said the emirate is using an integrated approach to manage energy and water. This includes better planning, stronger regulation, and the use of advanced technology. The goal is to improve efficiency and ensure stable services for residents and businesses. He also said global climate change is becoming more severe, which makes long-term planning more important than ever.
Abu Dhabi has already made progress in reducing emissions. Officials say carbon dioxide emissions have fallen by 42.5 million metric tonnes compared to 2016 levels. This drop reflects changes in energy production, efficiency improvements, and cleaner technology use across key sectors.
The emirate has set more detailed targets as part of its climate roadmap. One major goal is to reduce emissions intensity per megawatt-hour by 75 percent. At the same time, Abu Dhabi plans to raise the share of clean and renewable electricity to 60 percent by 2035. This aligns with the UAE’s wider goal of reaching climate neutrality in the coming decades.
Another key policy is the Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalisation Strategy, known as DSM 2030. This plan focuses on reducing energy and water use across homes, businesses, and public systems. It aims to cut electricity consumption by 22 percent and water use by 32 percent by 2030. Officials estimate this could save about 19 terawatt-hours of electricity and 485 million cubic metres of water.
Dr Al Jarwan said these policies are designed to balance growth with environmental protection. Abu Dhabi continues to expand its economy, but officials say this must be done without increasing pressure on natural resources. He added that responsible consumption is now part of public policy and daily life planning.
Innovation is also playing a growing role in the energy transition. Authorities say artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital tools are being used to improve system performance. These technologies help monitor energy use, improve decision-making, and increase efficiency across infrastructure networks. Officials believe this will make energy and water systems more flexible and reliable in the future.
The Department of Energy says these efforts also support the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. This national strategy aims to increase clean energy use and reduce carbon emissions across all sectors. Abu Dhabi’s approach is seen as a major part of this wider national plan.
Officials also stressed the importance of international cooperation. They said climate change is a global challenge that needs joint action from governments, industries, and communities. Limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C will require faster progress in clean energy, better water security, and lower emissions worldwide.
Abdulaziz Mohamed Alhammadi, Director-General for Regulatory Affairs, said the UAE is taking a leading role in the global energy transition. He said investment in renewable energy and peaceful nuclear power is helping diversify the energy mix. Large solar projects in Abu Dhabi are also expanding clean electricity supply and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
He added that these steps strengthen energy security while supporting low-carbon growth. Officials believe this mix of policies will help the UAE remain competitive while also meeting climate targets.
Abu Dhabi’s clean energy plan reflects a long-term shift in how the emirate produces and uses power. With rising investment in renewables, stronger efficiency targets, and growing use of digital technology, officials say the goal is to build a more resilient and sustainable energy system for future generations.
