ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the major drivers and trends of renewable energy deployment in the region. It focuses on the status quo and future plans – both in the region as a whole and in selected countries. Energy security concerns are a major driver for the recent uptick in renewable energy investments in the region. Meeting rapidly rising domestic energy demand, a result of population and economic growth, is a major challenge for all Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries, while water scarcity further augments energy demand growth. The chapter examines a very interesting development that has accompanied the expansion of renewables in the region: the changing stance of MENA countries with respect to international cooperation. Major improvements in the cost competitiveness of solar and wind energy are another important driver for the increased deployment of renewables in the region.
