This report “The Future of Electricity in the Middle East and North Africa” published by IEA analyses electricity demand in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and its evolution to 2035. MENA has long been a cornerstone of global energy supply. But the region is fast becoming a central character in the story of global energy demand, particularly that of electricity use. Rapid population growth, urbanisation, and rising temperatures are driving up electricity demand.
Since 2000, MENA has become one of the top contributors to global electricity demand growth. The region’s climate, characterised by extreme heat and water scarcity, implies that reliable and resilient electricity systems are integral to meeting soaring demand for cooling and water desalination.
As electricity demand rises and MENA’s power mix diversifies, ensuring electricity security will remain essential. Integrating more solar PV and wind requires robust and flexible power systems, modern grids, regional interconnections, and advanced management. Storage solutions, including batteries, and demand-side flexibility will be key to balancing variability, while gas-fired power will continue to support system adequacy
This outlook provides an unprecedented regional overview of demand patterns for cooling and water desalination including country-level data. This report also explores the challenges and opportunities to sustainably meet electricity demand growth by exploring the potential of both demand and supply side policies and measures.
Access the report here
