Sustainability of Alternative Energy in Yemen: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Yemen is facing one of the most severe energy crises in the world, exacerbated by decades of conflict. In this context, sustainable energy solutions, particularly renewable energy technologies, have emerged as a critical pathway to addressing Yemen’s energy deficit while reducing environmental impact. The country possesses significant potential for renewable energy exploitation, especially solar and wind resources, due to its geographic location and climatic conditions. Scholars, policymakers, and development agencies have examined the challenges and opportunities facing Yemen's transition to a sustainable energy future. Objectives: This review paper aims to synthesize current knowledge on sustainable energy development in Yemen, exploring the potential of solar, wind, and other renewable resources, evaluating ongoing projects and policies, and identifying barriers and opportunities for future growth. By providing a comprehensive overview, this paper seeks to contribute to the understanding of how sustainable energy can support Yemen's recovery, economic development, and long-term resilience. Methods: The current review have been studied and analysed key studies and technical reports from 2010 to 2025, including contributions from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the World Bank, and regional academic institutions. The analysis categorizes existing literature into five thematic areas: (i) renewable energy potential assessment, (ii) energy policy and governance, (iii) investment and financing mechanisms, (iv) environmental and social impacts, and (v) capacity development and institutional strengthening. Results: Recent policy reforms, scheduled for 2024, aim to establish the Authority for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. The evolution of renewable energy policy in Yemen from 2010 to 2024 shows steady growth. Financing is a key challenge in Yemen's renewable energy transformation, although limited access to international financing, coupled with political risks, has limited private sector engagement. Renewable energy brings numerous environmental and social benefits to Yemen. Research shows that solar microgrids increase household incomes by 15 – 20%. Environmental goals include reducing CO2 emissions by 40% by 2050, increasing green space, and ensuring sustainable land-use planning for solar and wind farms. Furthermore, regional comparative studies show that the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Yemen is competitive with fossil fuel-based generation, especially when long-term maintenance and fuel import costs are taken into account. Overall, Yemen's renewable energy potential is quite promising, with solar energy leading the way due to its volume, cost-effectiveness, and ease of deployment. Wind, biomass, and geothermal resources offer additional opportunities that can diversify Yemen's energy mix, increase resilience, and promote sustainable development. Conclusion: Ambitious targets have been set to diversify Yemen's energy mix and improve efficiency, including a 15% share of renewable energy by 2025, rural solar electrification, and improved energy sector efficiency. However, achieving success in this area still requires concessional and blended financing to reduce investment risks, the promotion of modular and decentralized deployment models (mini-grids, rooftop solar panels), and the integration of renewable energy expansion into resilience and recovery planning.