Spotlight on Michel Abi Saab, General Manager- Emerge
About Michel:
I am an experienced leader with over 15 years in the energy sector, dedicated to helping business partners achieve their decarbonization goals through innovative renewable energy and demand-side management solutions.
Currently leading Emerge since its inception, a dynamic joint venture between Masdar and the EDF Group, I am focused on spearheading solar generation, energy storage, and hybrid systems in the Middle East. I contributed to the establishment of Emerge whose mission is to empower business partners, guiding them towards the achievement of their sustainability objectives.
Please describe your role at Emerge as well as your industry expertise.
As the General Manager of Emerge, I am responsible for overseeing Emerge’s operations, strategic direction, and overall growth in the MENA region. My role involves leading our talented team, managing key partnerships, and ensuring the successful execution and operation of our solar projects. With over 15 years of experience in the clean energy industry, I have developed a deep understanding of clean energy technologies, innovative solutions, project development, and market dynamics. My expertise lies in driving sustainable energy solutions and fostering collaborations that contribute to the decarbonization goals of Emerge clients and partners in the Middle East.
What motivated Emerge to invest in the MENA's solar industry?
Emerge was motivated to invest in the MENA's solar industry due to the region's immense potential for solar energy and its strong commitment to renewable development. With abundant sunlight and growing demand for clean energy, the MENA region offers significant opportunities for Emerge to support the energy transition. Clients expect top-notch service and quality from agile partners who can alleviate their technical and financial burdens. Emerge is dedicated to meeting these expectations by providing sustainable, no upfront cost solar solutions that align with the region's energy needs while reducing carbon emissions. Our goal is to deliver reliable, high-quality solar projects that fulfill our clients' requirements and contribute positively to the environment.
Can you tell us about what sets you apart from other competitors?
Emerge stands out for our commitment to excellence in service and quality, along with our agility in meeting market demands and customer requirements. By alleviating the technical and financial burdens from our clients, we allow them to focus on their core business while we manage their energy needs. Our strong partnerships with Masdar and the EDF Group, both leaders in the renewable energy sector, provide access to a global team and top suppliers, enabling us to deliver innovative solar projects. In just three years, we have powered over 30 sites, with more than 100 sites under delivery, and have been selected as the clean energy provider by leading local and international clients. Additionally, we develop battery storage solutions that allow our customers to use clean energy at night. We also utilize robotic cleaning and artificial intelligence to optimize our plants' performance. This comprehensive approach and proven track record truly set Emerge apart in the competitive landscape.
What's a recent milestone Emerge has achieved that you would like to share with us?
I’m proud to share that Emerge has recently broken ground on a 60MW solar installation, the largest solar installation in Sharjah to date, supporting Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC)'s commitment to decarbonization and its goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2032. This milestone represents a significant step in Emerge’s ongoing partnerships with prominent entities in the region as we help them reach their sustainability objectives. Additionally, this, reflects our capacity to deliver impactful solar solutions.
What are your expectations for the MENA region in terms of growth and new opportunities for Emerge?
We have high expectations for the MENA region in terms of growth and new opportunities for Emerge. The region is witnessing a rapid expansion of solar energy projects, driven by ambitious renewable energy targets and increasing awareness of the benefits of clean energy. We anticipate continued growth in utility-scale solar projects, as well as a rise in distributed solar solutions for our business partners. Additionally, advancements in energy storage technologies and grid integration will create new opportunities for Emerge to offer innovative solutions. We are excited to be a part of the MENA region's energy transition and look forward to contributing to its sustainable future.
How do you see the effects of the increasing adoption of solar energy on the MENA's economy in the coming years?
The increasing adoption of solar energy in the MENA region, alongside advancements in solar and battery storage technologies, is poised to have a transformative impact on the economy. Firstly, it will create job opportunities across various sectors, from manufacturing to installation, contributing to local employment growth. Additionally, diversifying energy sources will enhance energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This shift will attract both local and international investments, stimulating economic development. As solar and battery storage technologies improve, we anticipate a decrease in energy costs, benefiting consumers and businesses alike. Furthermore, this transition aligns with regional decarbonization goals, promoting sustainability and improving the region's global standing. Overall, the growth of solar energy and battery storage will drive innovation, infrastructure development, and a more resilient economy in the MENA region
Open question, is there something you want to add?
At Emerge, we pride ourselves on our proven track record in the solar industry, backed by our strong shareholders, Masdar and the EDF Group. We take full contractual and financial responsibility for our projects, encompassing engineering, financing, construction, and ongoing operations and maintenance. This comprehensive approach enables our customers to focus on their core business while significantly reducing operational costs and achieving their sustainability goals. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions, combined with the expertise of our shareholders, positions us as a trusted partner in the energy transition, helping clients navigate the challenges of adopting renewable energy with ease and confidence.
About Emerge:
Emerge is a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group established to develop solar generation, energy storage and hybrid solutions in the Middle East. We support our business partners in achieving their sustainability goals. A home-grown company, Emerge was founded in 2021 and has since established a robust performance record. Emerge provides clients with comprehensive renewable energy solutions via solar power agreements with zero upfront costs from the clients. This empowers our customers to concentrate on their core operations while meeting their decarbonation goals and reducing their operational expenditures.