THE POWER OF THE SUN A LOOK AT SOLAR ENERGY Pria Masson Tanwar talks about Solar Energy and the world of possibilities for its implementation in the region. The recent United Nations report on climate change has added to the already building momentum on the urgent need to be environmentally mindful. Clearly the idea that we all need to be environmentally conscious is very far from new. However, it often seems like everything has an environmental impact and it can be a little overwhelming to think of where to begin. In analysing climate change and implications, I had a similar issue – the issues are way too many. So this month, I decided to focus on one that I feel has the maximum potential in the GCC region i.e. renewable energy or more specifically solar energy. By definition renewable energy is any energy that is indefinitely available with limited risks of running out. This usually encompasses energy in naturally occurring elements and therefore refers to energy generated using wind, biomass, water and the sun. As per the Department of Energy (USA) 1 , the amount of sunlight that strikes the earth›s surface in an hour and a half is enough to handle the entire world›s energy consumption for a full year. Geographically, solar energy is the easiest step for the GCC region. This is evident with the significant strides that have been made recently. Dubai is expected to see the completion of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park worth USD 4.3 billion. Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) is slated to construct the Al Dhafra Solar 1 www.energy.gov/eere/solar/how-doessolar-work commerce 34 September 2021 www.bahrainthismonth.com
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