Abu dhabi: The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has unveiled technical guidance aimed at aiding countries in the development of renewable energy resource maps. The guidance is designed to assist National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) in collaboration with energy ministries and other stakeholders to create comprehensive national renewable energy atlases.
According to Emirates News Agency, the National Renewable Energy Atlases (NRAs) for wind, solar, and hydropower were developed following a critical gap identified by a 2022-2023 WMO global energy survey. This survey highlighted the absence of essential high-resolution data needed for effective energy planning in many countries.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasizes the significance of the guidance, which integrates reanalysis data, ground-based observations, satellite products, and future climate projections. It utilizes advanced data-driven methods, such as AI-based statistical downscaling, to transform diverse climate datasets into actionable insights.
The initiative aims to ensure that scientific data directly informs improved long-term energy planning. By 2030, WMO aspires to provide all member states with high-resolution national renewable energy atlases.
This guidance contributes to international objectives to triple global renewable capacity and enhance energy efficiency by 2030. Additionally, it aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7, which promotes affordable, reliable, and modern energy access for all.
