Page 45 - MAJRA PR REPORT APRIL 2025

commitment to advancing clean energy research and supporting the UAE’s vision for a sustainable
future."

Established in November 2009 with an AED 15 million endowment from Petrofac, the Petrofac
Research Chair in Renewable Energy was created to advance interdisciplinary research in clean
energy technologies. Bringing together experts from physics, chemistry and engineering, the chair
fosters innovation in solar energy efficiency, energy storage solutions, green hydrogen production
and AI-driven energy management systems. The initiative supports the UAE’s ambition to become a
hub for sustainable energy innovation.

"The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy has united experts to foster innovation in clean
energy technologies, developed sustainable energy storage, explored green hydrogen production
and implemented AI-driven energy management. Our dedication to innovation and sustainability is
recognized with the Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp awarded by Majra the federal arm of
the UAE Ministry of Economy, supporting the UAE's ambition to become a global leader in
sustainable energy innovation, ensuring long-term economic and environmental sustainability in
line with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050," said Ali Abdulla Al Ali, Petrofac UAE Country Chair.

This recognition acknowledges the long-term impact of the Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable
Energy, which has made measurable contributions in three key areas.

At the environmental level, the chair has spearheaded research that enhances solar energy
efficiency, remote monitoring of renewable energy systems, and sustainability-driven power
solutions. These advancements have reduced carbon footprints, improved energy conservation
practices and contributed to the UAE’s broader clean energy goals.

From a social perspective, the chair has played a vital role in developing the next generation of
renewable energy leaders by attracting students interested in practical education and hands-on
research in renewable energy. Through outreach initiatives and knowledge-sharing, the chair has
helped foster a culture of sustainability within the academic community and beyond.
At the economic level, the chair has actively contributed to the UAE’s renewable energy sector,
driving industry-academic collaboration that supports job creation, technological advancements
and public-private partnerships. By producing research that has direct applications in industry and
energy policy, the chair strengthens the UAE’s competitiveness in the global clean energy transition.
The chair also aligns with the presence of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in
Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City, a global intergovernmental agency that supports countries in their
transition to sustainable energy by providing policy advice, technological insights and investment
guidance in renewable energy.

The Petrofac Research Chair in Renewable Energy has also contributed significantly to AUS’
standing as a center of excellence for renewable energy education, attracting top-tier students and
faculty members while facilitating collaborative projects with industry partners and government
entities.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering, highlighted the initiative’s long-term impact.

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