⚡ Energy Transition Challenges Facing OAPEC Member States<br />Eng. Nourhan Thamer Assi<br /><br />✅ Sustainable Development Goals :<br />Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy<br />Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth<br />Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure<br />Goal 13: Climate Action<br />Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals<br />The global energy transition toward renewable sources and low-carbon technologies poses major challenges for OAPEC (Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries), whose economies largely rely on oil and gas exports.<br />Key Challenges:<br />Heavy reliance on oil revenues<br />National budgets are vulnerable to price volatility and shifting global demand.<br />Limited economic diversification<br />Many member states lack strong alternative sectors, complicating the transition process.<br />Technological gap<br />The renewable energy sector often depends on foreign technologies, increasing dependency and cost.<br />Shortage of skilled workforce<br />Clean energy projects require technical expertise, which is not sufficiently developed in several member states.<br />Inadequate infrastructure<br />Existing systems are tailored for fossil fuels, requiring massive upgrades for clean energy integration.<br />Environmental and international pressure<br />Countries are expected to commit to emission reduction goals and carbon neutrality, which can be politically and economically challenging.<br />Recommendations:<br />Accelerate national economic diversification.<br />Develop clear renewable and hydrogen strategies.<br />Promote international cooperation for tech transfer and capacity building.<br />Invest in education and technical training for the green economy.<br /><br />"Al-Mustaqbal University – The No. 1 Private University in Iraq"<br /><br />