Wind is a form of solar energy. The uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth's surface, and rotation of the earth cause wind flow patterns. Wind turbines, like aircraft propeller blades, turn in the moving air and power an electric generator that supplies an electric current. Most large modern wind turbines are horizontal-axis turbines.

The UAE has been a driving force in funding wind power overseas, but not so much in UAE where the solar energy has taken the lead. Masdar company from Abu Dhabi has invested in wind projects overseas. Masdar is one of three major investors in the Middle East’s wind power project in Jordan.

Masdar is also building the Dhofar wind power project in Oman jointly with Rural Areas Electricity Company of Oman (RAECO) with funding by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD). When ready, the 50MW wind farm will cater to the needs of 16,000 homes. Currently, Oman’s deployment of renewable energy does not exceed 1 per cent, with natural gas accounting for 97 per cent of fuel used for power generation.

The UAE wind-mapping project has identified favorable locations like Sir Bani Yas Island for a 30 MW project. Weak wind speeds also pose a major challenge for the industry. According to a recent report by MEED, more than $200bn worth of investment is needed by countries in the Middle East and North Africa region for developing renewable energy projects.