The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step towards sustainable energy development with the recent approval of the National Policy on Biofuels by the UAE Cabinet. This strategic move underscores the nation’s commitment to transitioning towards clean and renewable energy sources, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Crafted by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in collaboration with key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, the policy aims to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional fuels and diversify the country’s energy portfolio.
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted the pivotal role of the policy in the UAE’s decarbonization journey. He emphasized its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, with targets including a 20 percent increase in biodiesel consumption by 2050 and a 75 percent reduction in the carbon footprint of diesel vehicles.
The National Policy on Biofuels is strategically aligned with the objectives outlined in the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, emphasizing the integration of circular economy principles across various sectors. By leveraging waste as a valuable resource for fuel production, the policy aims to drive economic growth and promote sustainability.
Key industry leaders have expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing its importance in advancing the UAE’s position as a global leader in clean energy production. Ali Khalifa Alshamsi, Director General of the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation – Emarat – lauded the policy’s role in diversifying energy sources and enhancing sustainability efforts.
Saif Humaid Al Falasi, CEO of ENOC Group, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the government’s commitment to transitioning the energy sector towards a more diverse and flexible mix to meet future demands.
Yousif bin Saeed Lootah, Founder and CEO of Lootah Biofuels, emphasized the policy’s significance in promoting sustainability across multiple sectors, including transportation and agriculture. He praised the UAE’s environmental stewardship and its ambitious goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Ahmad Bin Eisa Alserkal, Chairman of Alserkal Group, emphasized the policy’s potential to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and stimulate economic growth through the development of a thriving biofuel industry.
Bader Saeed Al Lamki, CEO of ADNOC Distribution, welcomed the introduction of the National Policy on Biofuels as a milestone in the UAE’s sustainable mobility journey, highlighting its role in maintaining the nation’s status as a global leader in the energy sector.
Salem Bin Ashoor, Director and Head of Country, bp UAE, underscored the importance of biofuels in achieving net-zero emissions and praised the UAE’s commitment to clean energy goals.
The approval of the National Policy on Biofuels marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s quest for sustainable development, positioning the nation as a trailblazer in the global transition towards clean energy solutions.
