The UAE’s Ministry of Investment has signed an investment memorandum with India’s northern State, Rajasthan, to explore the development of a 60 GW project there.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy of the Republic of India had established a partnership with the UAE Ministry to take forward such projects that garner solar, wind and hybrid energy opportunities in Rajasthan. The agreement would develop renewable energy technologies to build a long-term plant, serving the State’s vital energy needs. The UAE would appoint a developer, who would work closely with Indian authorities to implement the initiative.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and Ajitabh Sharma, Principal Secretary of Industries in the Government of Rajasthan, were the official signatories on the memorandum, at a meeting in Abu Dhabi.

Alsuwaidi said, “Meeting tomorrow’s energy needs through sustainable and renewable methods are essential. The UAE remains at the forefront of an ambitious diversification agenda, with energy transition as a key pillar. This project highlights our unwavering commitment to advancing clean energy solutions. Rajasthan, with its favourable climate and vast landmass, offers the ideal environment for this initiative, serving as a testing ground for innovative technologies that will shape the future of energy.”

India and the UAE have been ambitious about their clean energy goals. While the UAE aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, India – in this case Rajasthan – hopes to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.

Sharma said, “India is steadfast in its commitment to a sustainable energy future… By leveraging Rajasthan’s natural advantages, this project will not only accelerate our energy transition but also serve as a model for innovation in renewable energy. Together, we are forging a path towards a greener, more sustainable world.” – editor@nrifocus.com