Middle East and North Africa's non-expanded growth in photovoltaic installations

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is witnessing a significant shift in its energy landscape, with solar power playing an increasingly vital role. A recent report by the ETM Solar Energy Industry Association (ESIA), released by GTM, highlights that by 2015, solar energy demand in the MENA region is expected to reach 8% of global demand, with installed capacity projected to hit 3.5 GW. By 2017, this demand is anticipated to surpass 10 GW, marking a rapid acceleration in solar adoption. Saudi Arabia and Turkey are set to dominate this growth, together accounting for around 70% of the region’s solar energy demand. Saudi Arabia has already emerged as the first market in the region to reach a gigawatt-scale solar deployment. This progress is driven by strong renewable energy policies and lessons learned from successful wind projects. Turkey, too, is on track to become the second-largest solar market in the region, fueled by similar supportive frameworks. According to Scott Berg, a researcher at GTM and the report's author, the next five years will bring transformative changes to the solar sector in MENA. “As Saudi Arabia becomes the leading market, other countries in the region will also benefit,” he said. “With strategic planning, growing local partnerships, and a more stable supply chain, major global players are clearly seeing the potential of the MENA solar market and are eager to invest and collaborate.” For oil-rich nations in the region, transitioning to renewable energy could reduce reliance on oil for electricity generation, freeing up resources and reducing dependence on costly imported fuels. This shift not only supports energy security but also aligns with broader goals of economic diversification. Renewable energy infrastructure is gaining momentum across the region, with several countries announcing ambitious plans and substantial investments. For instance, a report from the Doha Energy Summit highlighted that the MENA region will invest $25 billion over the next five years to meet rising energy demands. In addition, Gulf countries have committed massive funding to boost energy output. From 2013 to 2017, the Gulf states plan to invest approximately $63 billion in the power sector, with significant portions allocated to specific regions such as the eastern Arab States ($36.8 billion), Iran ($21.4 billion), and the West of Arabia ($14.6 billion). Overall, the entire MENA region is expected to see around $147 billion in energy-related investments. Solar initiatives are also gaining traction. Qatar aims to add 1.8 GW of solar capacity by 2014, while Dubai plans for 5% of its electricity to come from solar by 2030. Abu Dhabi has completed the 100 MW Shams 1 concentrated solar power plant, and Saudi Arabia has unveiled a long-term strategy targeting 16 GW of solar projects and 25 GW of concentrated solar power by 2030. Meanwhile, the EU continues to support large-scale solar projects in the region, particularly in desert areas where solar potential is immense.

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