MENA to Attract USD 1 Trillion in Renewable Energy Investments by 2030

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is poised to attract over USD 1 trillion in renewable energy investments by 2030, driving economic growth, job creation, and cross-border collaborations. This was stated by Mark Thomas, Group CEO of Bapco Energies, while speaking at the third edition of the 'Sustainability Forum Middle East' in Bahrain.

Thomas emphasised the region's critical role in global climate action and energy resilience. He highlighted how partnerships between nations, industries, and institutions are essential for addressing climate change and ensuring a smooth energy transition.

The forum, held under the patronage of Bahrain’s Oil and Environment Minister and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs Dr. Mohammed Bin Daina, gathered over 400 regional and international decision-makers, business leaders, and sustainability experts. Discussions focused on aligning business models with climate action, scaling climate finance, advancing policy frameworks, and fostering innovation.

Dr. Bin Daina reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to supporting sustainable initiatives that strengthen national and international partnerships. He stressed the importance of collaboration, investment, and decisive action to accelerate the energy transition and achieve the region’s decarbonisation goals. He also underscored the need for cooperation, coordination, and knowledge exchange to tackle climate change, mitigate its causes, and adapt to its impacts.

The forum featured interactive discussions with more than 50 industry leaders from MENA, Europe, the UK, the U.S., and Brazil, covering critical aspects of the region’s net-zero ambitions.

It also organised workshops led by global consultants and regional firms specialising in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) advisory and sustainability. These sessions aimed to equip participants with the tools and expertise needed to develop effective sustainability strategies, enhance climate-related financial disclosures, and drive decarbonisation efforts.