How the Gulf can collectively unlock the promise of solar power

The Gulf region is on track to become a global leader in solar energy, according to the International Energy Agency's Renewables 2026 report. The Middle East is set to triple its renewable energy production by 2031, with solar power playing a significant role. The UAE, with its abundant sunshine, is expected to become the world's largest per-capita producer of solar electricity. Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar are also poised to lead in solar energy production.

While solar power holds great promise, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Solar energy availability varies throughout the day, making storage and cross-border electricity trade crucial. A more integrated regional electricity market could help balance supply and demand and enhance resilience. This integration could extend beyond national borders, with Morocco and Egypt also committing to renewable energy. A coordinated regional strategy could emerge from these partnerships.

However, such integration must be approached cautiously, considering the security implications. Recent efforts to fortify Gulf power plants against drone attacks underscore the need to view energy security as part of physical security. As solar energy expands, safeguarding grids and transmission networks will be as vital as building new capacity. The Gulf region is well-positioned to play a significant role in the global energy transition, but the opportunity extends beyond individual countries.