The energy transition took center stage at last week’s Middle East Energy conference in Dubai, where regional leaders explored how the Gulf can remain a key global energy player by exporting clean electricity.
With abundant solar and wind resources, Gulf countries are looking to leverage renewable power as a future export commodity. However, while the technology is ready, regional and global markets still lack the infrastructure and regulatory systems needed for large-scale international power trading, according to conference participants.
Central to this challenge is grid connectivity. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable electricity must be transmitted directly through power lines—often across borders or underwater. Intra-Gulf grid enhancements and new international links will be essential.
One pioneering effort underway is a $3.8 billion project led by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa). The partners are building two high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea cables, each over 130 kilometers long, to connect the UAE’s solar and nuclear-powered onshore grid to offshore oil platforms. The system, the first of its kind in the Middle East, is set to go live later this year.
“Once operational, the link will help Adnoc cut emissions from its offshore facilities by over 30 percent,” said Esam Al Murawwi, Chief Projects Officer at TAQA Transmission. He also pointed to a larger project in development: the Morocco–UK Power Project.
TAQA is one of several investors backing Xlinks, an ambitious venture that aims to build the world’s largest HVDC cable network. The plan involves a massive solar, wind, and battery complex in Morocco’s Tan-Tan province, with power transmitted to the UK via 4,000 kilometers of subsea cables. Once complete, the project would supply 3.6 gigawatts—about 8% of Britain’s current electricity demand.
Xlinks has drawn support from major energy players including TotalEnergies, Octopus Energy, and GE Vernova. It has been designated a “project of national significance” by the UK government, though final approvals are still pending. While some discussions have emerged about redirecting the connection to Germany, the company says it remains committed to the UK.
Preliminary seabed surveys have been completed, and cables will be laid below the ocean floor. Although transmission losses are expected to reach 13% over the long distance, the project’s value lies in timing. Morocco can generate power during periods when the UK’s solar and wind production is low, offering a premium supply advantage.
Frank Wouters, director of the EU-backed MED-GEM initiative, says the project makes economic sense despite energy losses. “If the power source is cheap, the losses won’t break the business case,” he said, noting the bigger challenge is market readiness rather than technical limitations.
As Europe and other regions work to open up electricity markets and meet clean energy targets, Gulf countries appear increasingly poised to contribute—not just as oil exporters, but as major players in the green power economy.
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