In a significant announcement on Sunday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) revealed plans to create a specialized company dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This decision was unveiled during a meeting of the UAE Cabinet at Expo City Dubai, held concurrently with COP28.
Key Responsibilities of the New Company
The newly formed company will assume a pivotal role in overseeing the development of EV charging infrastructure. Among its core responsibilities are the management of day-to-day operations at charging stations and the formulation of a comprehensive pricing strategy for charging services.
National Policy and Goals: Electric Vehicle
Earlier in the year, the UAE approved a national policy on electric vehicles, intending to establish a robust network of charging stations. This initiative aims to meet the growing needs of EV owners while effectively regulating the market. The policy is anticipated to contribute significantly, targeting a 20% reduction in energy consumption within the transportation sector.
Green Mobility Objectives
In May 2023, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure set ambitious goals, envisioning a 50% share of electric vehicles on UAE roads by 2050, as part of the broader shift towards green mobility.
Cabinet Meeting Highlights
During the Cabinet meeting, a comprehensive study on the actual cost of charging electric vehicles in the country was reviewed. The Cabinet, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, approved various strategies to achieve climate neutrality. These include the UAE National Energy Strategy 2050, the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, and the National Electric Vehicles Policy. The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (Corsia) will also be implemented.
Global Recognition and Investments
Ranked second globally in the Energy Transition pillar of the Green Future Index 2023, the UAE has demonstrated its commitment by investing over $50 billion in renewable energy projects across 70 countries, with an additional $50 billion commitment over the next decade.
Sweeping Environmental Initiatives in 2023
Throughout 2023, over 60 policies, initiatives, and decisions were issued to advance the UAE’s efforts in combating climate change. These encompass the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031, a global initiative to decarbonize waste, and the introduction of a national carbon credits registration system.
Wide-ranging Approvals and Initiatives
The Cabinet also greenlit the National Guide for Smart Construction, technical regulations for the energy efficiency of electric engines, and the consumption meters. Guidelines to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel technology deployment were approved, targeting the production of 700 million liters annually by 2030.
In addition to decisions related to crowdfunding platforms, weights and dimensions of heavy vehicles, rehabilitation criteria for misdemeanors and felonies, and regulations for juvenile delinquents, the Cabinet embraced the National Grant Initiative for Culture and Creativity. The meeting concluded with the approval of a pivotal initiative, “Identification of Emirati Individuals and Families using the National Identity or Digital Certification,” set to replace the Family Book in official transactions, services, and benefits at the state level.
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