Recording of Wednesday, September 02, 2026 | Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 24:51 .
Marina Strateva, COO of ZAKH Renewable Energy, highlights significant challenges in solar project financing and development during her presentation at the Intersolar Middle East Conference 2026. She reveals that only 20% of solar projects reach construction despite the global solar capacity soaring to 2,392 gigawatts, with substantial additions in recent years. However, a major disparity exists, as Asia accounts for roughly 64% of global installations while Africa remains at less than 1%. The process of project development is hindered by issues such as a lack of transparency and missing data regarding approvals and completions, with approximately 41% of projects never reaching realization. Financial constraints further complicate matters, as the expected income per megawatt drastically decreased from 120,000 euros to 38,000 euros, pressuring developers to adjust unrealistic pricing. Challenges also persist in securing grid connections and power purchase agreements, further delaying project progress. Moreover, the absence of effective collaboration and regulatory protocols amongst stakeholders exacerbates these delays, highlighting the urgent need for improved support mechanisms. As the 2030 goals remain unaccomplished, significant gaps in energy access, especially in regions like Africa, underline the pressing need for actionable solutions in renewable energy project execution.
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Speaker
Marina Strateva
COO
ZAKH Renewable Energy and Engineering Manufacturing
United Arab Emirates
This session explores how effective policy frameworks, streamlined regulations, and innovative financing solutions can work together to accelerate the global expansion of solar energy. Bringing together perspectives from policymakers, investors, and industry leaders, it will examine how supportive regulatory environments reduce investment risk, attract private capital, and enable the successful development of solar and hybrid energy projects. Through best practices, emerging funding mechanisms, and real-world case studies, participants will gain practical insights into mobilizing capital, fostering investor confidence, and creating the conditions for sustainable growth across both established and emerging solar markets.
Further Talks of this session:
Speaker
Sheikh Muhammad Noman
Founder - CEO
Pegasus Capital Investments
United Arab Emirates
Speaker
Sara Sarhan
Senior Market Analyst
Rystad Energy
Norway
Speaker
Abdallah Alshamali
Policy Director
Global Solar Council
UK