An architectural model of Masdar, a clean energy city being built in the UAE

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are all investing heavily in clean energy technologies. It might seem counterintuitive that some of the most oil rich countries on Earth are investing in the promotion of a competitor technology, but as an article in today’s NY Times points out, the leaders of these Gulf Emirates are well aware that their vast wealth comes from a limited resource, and they are actively interested in developing the new energy technology for the future to make their economies sustainable even after all their oil is pumped.

It makes perfect sense given that not only is the Arabian peninsula awash in petroleum, it’s also one of the sunniest places on Earth. Add to that the fact that with stocks and real estate both in free falls from an investment standpoint, renewable energy remains one of the few sectors where capital can actually make money while providing a solid financial future for those smart enough to get in on it now. You can takepart in pushing renewable solar energy here in America by checking out the Solar Energy Industries Association.

LINKS:

NY Times: Gulf Oil States Seeking a Lead in Clean Energy

NPR: Oil rich Abu Dhabi builds renewable energy city

Jordan Environment Watch: Renewable energy aspirations in the Arab world