including wind power, account for 30% of Oman’s energy mix by 2030. The government is pushing ahead with these projects to meet its ambitious net-zero carbon emissions target for 2050. In the UAE, wind energy is a growing interest, complementing the nation's strong focus on solar energy. While not yet a primary source of renewable energy, the UAE has initiated discussions about offshore wind farms and is considering projects that could contribute significantly to the national grid. The UAE has been a key player in renewable energy investment globally, hosting COP28, which further positions the country as a leader in the region’s clean energy transition. North African projects Egypt has been steadily increasing its wind energy capacity. The country’s Gulf of Suez II wind farm, with a 504MW capacity, is part of a broader push to meet 42% of its energy needs from renewables by 2035. It is expected to enter into commercial operation in August 2025. Supported by international funding and expertise, Egypt is looking to expand this sector further, with additional wind projects in the pipeline. One more notable wind energy project in the Middle East is Jordan’s Tafila Wind Farm, which was completed in late 2022. This 117MW project is the largest of its kind in Jordan and a key component of the country’s renewable energy strategy. Located in the southern part of Jordan, the Tafila Wind Farm contributes to about 3% of the country’s total energy needs and helps Jordan move towards its goal of sourcing 20% of its energy from renewables by 2025. ■ The Tafila Wind Farm contributes to about 3% of Jordan’s total energy needs Egypt has been steadily increasing its wind energy capacity. 14 Image Credit: Adobe Stock ISSUE 4 2024 | www.technicalreviewmiddleeast.com Renewables