This Gulf Business article features an interview with Niko Cornelis, CEO GCC at ENGIE, discussing the current state of the UAE’s energy transition.
The central theme is the shift from simply building renewable energy capacity, like solar farms, to the more complex phase of integrating this intermittent power into the national grid reliably. Cornelis explains that as solar becomes a larger part of the energy mix, technologies such as battery energy storage (BESS), flexible gas generation, and digital grid management are essential to maintain stability.
Key points from the interview include:
- The Evolving Role of Gas: Natural gas is transitioning from a primary baseload power source to providing crucial “firming capacity” to back up renewables and ensure the grid is stable. New gas turbines are being designed to be “hydrogen-ready” for future decarbonization.
- The Impact of Battery Storage: BESS technology allows solar energy generated during the day to be stored and dispatched during evening peak hours, making solar a more reliable, dispatchable power source.
- Integrated Planning: The UAE’s strategy now involves planning and building generation, storage, and transmission infrastructure together as a cohesive system.
- ENGIE’s Contribution: Niko outlines ENGIE’s role in this transition, referencing its long history in the region and its involvement in projects like the 1.5 GW Khazna Solar PV plant.
The article frames the UAE’s success not just on the amount of renewable capacity built, but on the successful integration of all its energy assets into a single, resilient system.
Read the full interview to understand how the UAE is building a smarter, more flexible grid that integrates renewable generation, advanced technology, and resilient infrastructure.
Full Interview – Gulf Business
