In an exclusive interview, Karim Amin, Siemens Energy Executive Board Member, discusses the evolving global energy mix, technologies transforming the global energy industry, and the critical importance of ADIPEC as a global platform convening energy producers, policymakers, innovators, and financiers to the same table.
In the push toward a more sustainable energy future, how do you see the global energy mix evolving?
Global electricity demand is on a steep upward trajectory – doubling by mid-century, by most estimates. Meeting that demand sustainably and with greater resilience is one of the defining challenges of our time.
Renewables are surging, but their inherent volatility poses even greater challenges as they are increasingly crossing the tipping point of grid stability in some countries. Solar and wind are dominating capacity additions, yet they cannot meet demand around the clock. This is why gas-fired power remains a critical part of the equation. On average, for every 3-4 gigawatts (GW) of renewables, at least 1GW of dispatchable capacity is needed to stabilise the grid.
Attention is also returning to nuclear power – this time, with greater urgency and innovation. More than 50 countries now include nuclear in their national energy strategies. The UK aims to deliver up to 24GW by 2050, tripling its current capacity, while China is targeting 150 new reactors by 2035. In 2024, the UAE’s Barakah plant reached full capacity, supplying up to 25% of the country’s electricity in record time.
What is emerging is a much greater understanding of a layered, hybrid energy system, where diverse technologies work together, not compete, to deliver reliability, flexibility, and sustainability.
"What is emerging is a much greater understanding of a layered, hybrid energy system, where diverse technologies work together, not compete, to deliver reliability, flexibility and sustainability."
What trends or technologies are helping transform the global energy industry from your perspective?
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing is transforming electricity demand. Data centres alone are expected to consume ca.1,000 terawatt-hours globally by 2030 – that’s approximately 3.2% of total global electricity demand in 2024, according to the IEA. These facilities need uninterrupted power, driving innovation in on-site generation, storage, and microgrid design.
When it comes to nuclear, the real shift is toward small modular reactors (SMRs). These compact, standardised systems offer faster deployment, greater flexibility, lower costs, and enhanced safety. SMRs are attracting interest from utilities, industry, and data centre developers. Earlier this year, Siemens Energy partnered with Rolls-Royce SMR to supply power generation technology for the firm’s SMRs and help bring these next-generation reactors to market.
Grid technology is also evolving to keep pace with demand and a varied energy mix. HVDC systems, grid-forming inverters, and automated controls are becoming essential to manage high renewable penetration. And storage technologies such as batteries, hydrogen, and long-duration energy storage solutions are helping to close the gap between variable supply and constant demand.
Meanwhile, gas turbines are being redesigned for higher efficiency, carbon capture and hydrogen blending, enabling them to remain flexible assets in an increasingly decarbonised system. Siemens Energy aims to have its key gas turbine frames capable of burning 100% hydrogen by 2030.
What we are also seeing is not only an evolution in the technologies used, but in how different components of the system work together. Solutions that used to be mutually exclusive are now co-existing to form a more connected, responsive energy landscape.
Why is it important to be part of the conversation at ADIPEC?
The most effective outcomes often emerge when different voices and experiences come together. ADIPEC is one of the few global platforms that brings energy producers, policymakers, innovators, and financiers to the same table. For Siemens Energy, the event provides an opportunity to engage with partners across the Middle East and beyond, share our global experience from different regions, discuss what is needed on the ground, and advance practical, flexible solutions.
Equally important, ADIPEC is a place to connect with young people entering the industry – those who will lead the next phase of change. Every year, we see their energy, ideas, and determination. Their commitment is critical to write the next chapter of the energy transition.