Sheikh Khalid and Microsoft’s Brad Smith discuss innovative paths to clean energy

In a discussion centred on leveraging advanced technology to bolster sustainability practices, Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, met with Brad Smith, Vice Chairman and President of Microsoft Corporation. The two leaders explored the potential benefits of strategic partnerships among companies, institutions, and organizations engaged in artificial intelligence, energy, and climate sectors.

The meeting took place at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, alongside the ENACT Council’s “Activating Action” initiative, which has drawn over 80 leaders from global energy, technology, and investment sectors to participate in its discussions.

The conversation underscored the ongoing collaboration between ADNOC, Masdar, G42, and Microsoft, focusing on harnessing advanced artificial intelligence technologies and solutions. Their goal is to adapt to swift global changes, facilitate a transformative shift in the energy sector, and utilize low-carbon energy solutions to power infrastructure required for artificial intelligence systems.

Additionally, the leaders discussed how to continue benefiting from Microsoft’s expertise in advanced technology and artificial intelligence to align with the UAE’s and Abu Dhabi’s aspirations for clean energy transitions and to foster the growth of artificial intelligence across various industries and key sectors.

The meeting also addressed the strategic partnership among Microsoft, ADNOC, and Masdar, which seeks to supply Microsoft’s data centers with renewable energy. This initiative aligns with global efforts to enhance sustainability practices and diminish carbon emissions.

The partnership exemplifies the commitment of all parties towards supporting the transition to clean energy sources, thereby strengthening the UAE’s and Abu Dhabi’s positioning as leaders in green technology and sustainable energy solutions.

Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the significant advantages offered by the UAE and Abu Dhabi, including a well-integrated business infrastructure, advanced legislative frameworks, and competitive incentives for companies and investors. This environment positions the region as an ideal hub for the expansion of global firms across various vital sectors.

This discussion follows the release of a joint report on October 31, 2024, by ADNOC, Masdar, and Microsoft, titled “Enhancing Capabilities: Artificial Intelligence and Energy for a Sustainable Future.” The report emphasizes how artificial intelligence can enhance energy efficiency, manage complex systems, reduce emissions, and support climate neutrality while addressing the rising energy demands of data centers utilizing artificial intelligence technologies.