Illuminating the path to sustainability

In the heart of the UAE’s rapidly growing energy landscape, Emerge is playing a pivotal role in transforming how businesses and communities access renewable energy. Led by General Manager Michel Abi Saab, the joint venture between EDF Group and Masdar focuses on distributed solar energy and energy storage solutions, providing an innovative approach to powering businesses, cities, and infrastructure with clean energy.

“Our mission is simple but powerful: to provide turnkey solar solutions that require zero upfront costs from our clients,” explains Abi Saab. “We take care of everything, from design and financing to construction and operation and maintenance for up to 25 years, ensuring businesses can achieve their decarbonization goals and increase their profitability without the heavy financial burden typically associated with solar installation.”

Emerge’s approach differs from large utility-scale solar projects. Instead of focusing on massive, gigawatt-level installations, the company’s expertise lies in distributed solar and energy storage—smaller systems located close to the point of consumption. These projects—often installed on rooftops, carports, or vacant land—directly supply energy to end users, making them an ideal solution for businesses seeking cost-effective ways to reduce energy usage and carbon emissions.

Emerge’s adaptability allows it to handle a wide range of project sizes, depending on client needs. “We are capable of delivering large-scale installations of over 100 MW as well as smaller-scale solutions for industrial and commercial clients. This flexibility ensures that we can meet the diverse energy demands of various sectors, maximizing the use of underutilized spaces to bring clean energy closer to consumption points,” says Abi Saab. By leveraging its strategic partnerships with EDF Group and Masdar, Emerge can access the latest technologies and offer highly competitive tariffs to clients, positioning the company as a leader in the GCC’s distributed solar market.

Emerge has solarized more than 150 sites in the region, showcasing its ability to deliver both large and small projects depending on client needs. Standout projects include installations for the Sharjah National Oil Company (SNOC) and Dubai Maritime City (DMC), among others. Collectively, these projects displace hundreds of tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, demonstrating the tangible impact of distributed solar in helping businesses contribute to the UAE’s sustainability goals. “It’s not just about saving energy—it’s about making a tangible difference in sustainability,” Abi Saab continues. “Our projects aren’t just good for business—they’re good for the planet.”

Expanding beyond the UAE

While Emerge has firmly established itself in the UAE and KSA, its ambitions stretch beyond national borders. “Our goal is to become the leading distributed solar developer in the region,” Abi Saab asserts. “We’re already delivering over 200 megawatts in projects across various sectors, and the next step is to expand into other GCC countries.”

Emerge has successfully executed high-profile projects, including installations at Zayed International Airport, ADNOC service stations, Khazna Data Center, Warner Bros., Yas Marina Circuit, American Community School, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, further demonstrating its ability to meet the demands of large-scale clients. These partnerships emphasize the growing importance of sustainability in the commercial and industrial sectors, where clean energy has become both a necessity and a statement of environmental commitment.

“We’re not just reducing energy costs,” explains Abi Saab. “We’re also helping our clients foster awareness within their communities. Our work at the American Community School, for example, has engaged students and staff in understanding their energy production and displaced CO2, which fosters a deeper connection to sustainability.”
 

Overcoming challenges with optimism

No journey toward sustainability is without its hurdles. For Emerge, one of the biggest technical challenges lies in finding suitable locations to install the solar systems. Older buildings, roofs cluttered with equipment, or insufficient space often pose obstacles. “Not every roof is structurally sound or has enough space for solar panels,” Abi Saab admits. “But that’s where our tailored solutions come in. We conduct site visits, analyze the conditions, and customize our approach for each client. It’s about turning obstacles into opportunities.”

Regulations across the GCC can also be inconsistent, which presents hurdles for expansion. “Some emirates in the UAE have developed clear regulations for distributed solar, while others are still catching up,” Abi Saab notes. “But I’m optimistic. The energy transition is happening, and with the increasing focus on sustainability, regulations are evolving to support our growth. We’re already seeing progress, especially with the introduction of new regulations in Saudi Arabia. As these frameworks develop, the future looks brighter for clean energy in the region.”

The tole of distributed solar

Distributed solar is increasingly seen as a vital part of the energy transition in the MENA region. “It’s a natural complement to utility-scale projects,” explains Abi Saab. “While distributed solar may have started later, it’s growing rapidly, and with the addition of battery energy storage, it’s becoming even more impactful. The ability to store solar energy and use it after sunlight hours is a game-changer, especially for off-grid clients. We’re already integrating these technologies into our projects, such as the recent agreement with Etihad Rail, and the potential is incredible.”

With dropping prices for solar components and batteries, Emerge is positioned to offer even more competitive and viable solutions for its clients. But it’s not just about cost—our tailor-made solutions, the strong backing of our shareholders, and our deep understanding of local challenges and regulatory frameworks further strengthen our ability to deliver impactful projects. “This is just the beginning,” Abi Saab says with a smile. “The future of distributed solar in the GCC is bright, and we’re excited to be part of that journey.”

A passion for impact

For Abi Saab, Emerge is more than just a company—it’s a mission he’s deeply passionate about. “I’ve always been driven by a love for nature, science, and making a real difference,” he reflects. “What we do at Emerge isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating a positive impact for future generations. And for me, that’s the most rewarding part of my job.”

He’s not just looking for people with the right technical skills—he’s looking for those who share that same passion. “When I hire, I don’t just look at experience,” he says. “I look for people who are motivated and driven by the same values we embody at Emerge. Passion is what powers us forward—both in our work and in the difference we’re making in the world.”