From ADIPEC to COP27 - Partnering for implementation

From ADIPEC to COP27 - Partnering for implementation

In volatile times, gathering thought and action leaders to confront global challenges like rising sea levels, intense heat waves or lack of energy access for all, is a necessity.

We are in volatile times, and COP27 is the right forum, at the right time. It’s on us to make the most of this opportunity.

As well as hosting important events addressing climate change and energy transition, from ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference to COP27 - UN Climate Change Conference this year, to Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week - ADSW and #cop28 next year, the Middle East is taking a leading role. The region has a pivotal role to play in the reconfiguration of global energy systems. As the world’s leading energy producing region, responsible for ensuring stable global supplies, and with a strategic location, abundant renewable energy resources, it has the right foundations to be a clean energy exporter. The role of the Middle East is becoming even more crucial, with the current energy crises bringing insecurity, instability, and volatility across global markets, stretching from foods, to commodities, to jobs, significantly impacting households around the world. Remaining a stable partner for energy security, price stability is a strong focus for Middle East countries.

But stability and affordability are not the only challenges ahead – tackling climate change and finding solutions for sustainable energy is still of the highest priority today. Amid a backdrop of increasing environmental disasters, radical new measures must be implemented.

At 西门子能源 , we firmly believe that we can counteract climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. If we do it right, the energy transition will contribute to greater energy security and geopolitical stability and give countries the right tools to develop their economies further.

This is especially relevant for today’s youth, as the consequences of climate change are getting more severe. Our failures will be their realities. Therefore, innovating tomorrow’s technologies needs to include the next generations in creating the energy systems of the future. During ADIPEC this year we showcased our partnership with Khalifa University to locate our new Innovation Center at their campus. This collaboration allows us to share knowledges, tools, skills, and broad experience, to unleash the talent of young engineers contributing to the energy transition.

While we are making progress as a society, tough topics still pose roadblocks and need to be addressed. But history has shown that great disruptions can accelerate the pace of solution seeking. Innovation requires bold steps and collaboration with partners willing to take risks. Another partnership we announced during ADIPEC is a pilot project to co-develop blockchain technology with ADNOC to develop a carbon intensity certificate for a range of products including Murban crude and ammonia. Technology needs to be implemented for a diverse scope of solutions, and decarbonization starts with carbon transparency. That way we are one step closer to ensuring we are on the right path to net-zero.

As we are moving towards a more sustainable future, every concrete and measurable initiative counts. I am excited to see further progress during COP27 in Egypt this week, where we are a supporting sponsor. Progress needs to be made, not only within the Alliance for Industry Decarbonization, which we co-created with International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) , but also among the world leaders, industry leaders, business leaders, and academics, which attend. Together we must work for implementation.