3:23 am - February 16, 2026
Khalifa University and China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric sign strategic MoU to develop sustainable power solutions tailored for the Gulf region, focusing on renewable integration, energy storage, and talent development.
Khalifa University of Science and Technology and China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) recently announced that they’ve signed a memorandum of understanding, aiming to create a joint innovation laboratory dedicated to sustainable energy and electrification tech. Interestingly enough, this week’s announcement shed light on their plans.
From what I gather, the deal was signed by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, who’s the President of Khalifa University, along with Dezhao Hu, the Chairman of BYE. The agreement sets out a broad collaboration between Khalifa University’s Advanced Power and Energy Centre (APEC) and BYE, quite a strategic partnership really, blending academic research strengths with industry engineering and manufacturing know-how.
What’s particularly notable is that the initiative is specifically tailored toward the power system needs of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Industry reports indicate that GCC countries are ramping up their deployment of renewable energy sources, energy storage solutions, and grid modernization initiatives, part of their larger national energy transition goals. The MoU specifies technical areas in line with those priorities: renewable energy integration, energy storage, advanced power electronics, hybrid AC/DC transmission networks, transportation electrification, green hydrogen uses, and the seamless integration of data centers and power systems via artificial intelligence.
Khalifa University mentioned that APEC will act as BYE’s main R&D hub for this collaboration. This means BYE will have access to university labs, and researchers from both sides will be able to work together on industrial projects. On the flip side, BYE will open its labs and industrial sites to Khalifa researchers, fostering what they call “full integration” between the entities. It’s a step towards collaboration that’s quite promising.
Another key aspect of the agreement is the talent development component. According to the MoU, students from Khalifa University will get opportunities like summer internships and paid cooperative placements at BYE’s facilities. They aim to train at least five specialized professionals in power equipment annually, with extra technical lectures and seminars aimed at stakeholders in the UAE’s energy industry.
Khalifa University sees this partnership as a way to speed up the transformation of energy systems and help bring new systems to market across the Gulf region. Professor Al Hajri stated that this collaboration would “accelerate the strategic transformation of energy systems” and create additional opportunities to promote those systems both regionally and internationally, especially by leveraging BYE’s products and APEC’s expertise.
BYE’s credentials aren’t just bragging rights, they’ve been recognized by Chinese media recently too. Back in 2025, Guangzhou Baiyun received the Guangdong Provincial Government Quality Award, an honor that Chinese outlets credits as a reflection of the company’s importance as a major supplier for national engineering projects, and for its focus on quality-driven growth. Their MoU statement frames the deal as part of their efforts to expand international R&D efforts.
The technological scope outlined in the MoU actually mirrors some of the key challenges facing Middle East power systems today. Grid operators in the GCC are dealing with increased variability from large-scale solar and wind farms, congested transmission lines connecting remote generation sites to urban centers, and a growing push to electrify transport and industry, all while trying to cut carbon emissions. Many engineers see hybrid AC/DC networks and advanced power-electronics controls as crucial for integrating these distributed energy resources effectively and reducing losses over long-distance links. Plus, coupling AI-powered data systems with energy assets is seen as a high priority to boost resilience and enable predictive maintenance.
The focus on green hydrogen applications also ties into regional strategies to decarbonize hard-to-electrify sectors and turn hydrogen into a low-carbon export fuel. However, industry experts point out that scaling hydrogen use will require not only technological advances like electrolysis and storage but also solid regulatory frameworks, supply chain investments, and cost reductions in electrolyzer manufacturing and renewable power.
Now, it’s important to note that this MoU isn’t a binding contract, more like a strategic partnership aimed at jointly developing projects and prototypes for potential commercialization throughout the Gulf and beyond. Both sides indicated that the main goal is closer R&D cooperation and product validation, without specific budgets or timelines being disclosed.
For Khalifa University, this step builds on a broader strategy to strengthen ties with global equipment manufacturers and accelerate transferring technology from labs to industry. Meanwhile, BYE benefits from proximity to testing environments and academic expertise that can help adapt equipment and control systems to the unique conditions of the GCC, like extreme temperatures, specific grid characteristics, and rapid load increases.
The agreement also anticipates ongoing activities like seminars, technical briefings, and knowledge-sharing sessions involving relevant government and private sector stakeholders across the UAE. These exchanges are seen as essential for moving prototypes into real-world field trials and eventually shaping regulations and procurement practices that will influence the commercialization process.
Overall, the partnership between Khalifa University and Guangzhou Baiyun enriches the regional push toward advanced power systems, bringing in an international industrial perspective. The real challenge, yeah, the possibly long-term one, will be turning prototype work into actual field projects, attracting and keeping skilled talent, and ensuring that innovations align with the procurement rules and regulatory frameworks that govern the Gulf’s electricity landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.emaratalyoum.com/local-section/other/2025-12-09-1.1995492 – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.ku.ac.ae/khalifa-university-and-chinas-guangzhou-baiyun-electric-sign-mou-to-establish-joint-innovation-laboratory – Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) to establish a joint innovation laboratory focused on sustainable energy and electrification technologies. The MoU was signed by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Dezhao Hu, Chairman of BYE. The collaboration aims to develop industrial-academic projects tailored to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region’s power grid needs, including renewable energy integration, advanced power electronics, and AI-driven power systems. Additionally, the partnership includes internships for Khalifa University students, technical exchanges, and joint seminars to engage local industry stakeholders. Khalifa University’s Advanced Power and Energy Center (APEC) will serve as the technology R&D hub for BYE, providing access to APEC’s laboratories for joint research projects. This collaboration reflects a commitment to driving innovation in clean energy and supporting the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future through energy transition and integration.
- https://www.onearabia.me/business/khalifa-university-guangzhou-baiyun-electric-joint-laboratory-011-134241.html – Khalifa University of Science and Technology has partnered with Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) from China to create a joint innovation lab focused on sustainable energy and electrification technologies. The agreement was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Dezhao Hu, Chairman of BYE. The partnership will focus on developing projects that cater to the power grid needs of the GCC region, exploring renewable energy integration, storage systems, advanced power electronics, hybrid AC/DC transmission networks, transportation electrification, green hydrogen applications, seamless data centre integration, and AI-driven power systems. Khalifa University students will benefit from summer internships and paid co-op placements at BYE’s industrial and R&D facilities, facilitating knowledge exchange and talent development crucial for the Middle East’s evolving energy sector. The MoU also includes an annual training programme designed to develop at least five specialised professionals in power equipment technology each year, along with joint technical lectures and seminars for UAE industry stakeholders.
- https://www.urdupoint.com/en/middle-east/khalifa-university-chinas-guangzhou-baiyu-2098987.html – Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) to establish a joint innovation laboratory and collaborate in research and development for sustainable energy and electrification technologies. The MoU was signed by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Dezhao Hu, Chairman of BYE. The collaboration covers developing industrial-academic projects tailored to the needs of the GCC region’s power grid, and cooperating in renewable energy integration and storage systems, advanced power electronics, hybrid AC/DC transmission networks, transportation electrification, green hydrogen applications, seamless data centre integration, and AI-driven power systems. The collaboration also includes internships for Khalifa University students, technical exchanges, and joint seminars to engage local industry stakeholders. Khalifa University’s Advanced Power and Energy Centre (APEC) will be considered the technology R&D hub for BYE, which will have access to APEC’s laboratories. BYE will also engage researchers to develop joint industrial-academic research projects, while APEC will have access to BYE labs for full integration between both teams.
- https://en.aletihad.ae/news/uae/4628252/khalifa-university–china-s-guangzhou-baiyun-electric-sign-m – Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) to establish a joint innovation laboratory and collaborate in research and development for sustainable energy and electrification technologies. The MoU was signed by His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Dezhao Hu, Chairman of BYE. The collaboration covers developing industrial-academic projects tailored to the needs of Gulf Cooperation Council region’s power grid, and cooperating in renewable energy integration and storage systems, advanced power electronics, hybrid AC/DC transmission networks, transportation electrification, green hydrogen applications, seamless data center integration, and AI-driven power systems. The collaboration also includes internships for Khalifa University students, technical exchanges, and joint seminars to engage local industry stakeholders. Khalifa University’s Advanced Power and Energy Center (APEC) will be considered the technology R&D hub for BYE, which will have access to APEC’s laboratories. BYE will also engage researchers to develop joint industrial-academic research projects, while APEC will have access to BYE labs for full integration between both teams.
- https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/278743993/khalifa-university-china-guangzhou-baiyun-electric-to-establish-joint-innovation-laboratory – Khalifa University of Science and Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (BYE) to establish a joint innovation laboratory and collaborate in research and development for sustainable energy and electrification technologies. The MoU was signed by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, and Dezhao Hu, Chairman of BYE. The collaboration covers developing industrial-academic projects tailored to the needs of the GCC region’s power grid, and cooperating in renewable energy integration and storage systems, advanced power electronics, hybrid AC/DC transmission networks, transportation electrification, green hydrogen applications, seamless data centre integration, and AI-driven power systems. The collaboration also includes internships for Khalifa University students, technical exchanges, and joint seminars to engage local industry stakeholders. Khalifa University’s Advanced Power and Energy Centre (APEC) will be considered the technology R&D hub for BYE, which will have access to APEC’s laboratories. BYE will also engage researchers to develop joint industrial-academic research projects, while APEC will have access to BYE labs for full integration between both teams.
- https://guangzhou.chinadaily.com.cn/baiyun/2025-12/02/c_1145049.htm – Guangzhou Baiyun Electric Equipment Company has been honoured with the 8th Guangdong Provincial Government Quality Award. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to quality and its significant contributions to the electrical equipment industry. The award underscores Baiyun’s dedication to excellence and its role as a core supplier for major national engineering projects. The company’s achievements in quality development have been acknowledged at both provincial and national levels, reflecting its robust progress in high-quality regional development. This accolade is a testament to Baiyun’s ongoing efforts to drive innovation and maintain high standards in its operations.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
10
Notes:
The narrative is fresh, with the earliest known publication date being December 8, 2025. The MoU was signed on the same date, indicating timely reporting. The content is original, with no evidence of recycling or republishing across low-quality sites. The announcement is based on a press release from Khalifa University, which typically warrants a high freshness score. No discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were found. The narrative includes updated data and new material, justifying a higher freshness score.
Quotes check
Score:
10
Notes:
The direct quotes from Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri and Dezhao Hu are unique to this report, with no earlier matches found online. This suggests potentially original or exclusive content.
Source reliability
Score:
10
Notes:
The narrative originates from Khalifa University, a reputable organisation, and is also reported by other reputable outlets such as OneArabia and UrduPoint. This strengthens the credibility of the information.
Plausability check
Score:
10
Notes:
The claims about the MoU and the collaboration between Khalifa University and Guangzhou Baiyun Electric are plausible and align with the known activities of both organisations. The focus on sustainable energy and electrification technologies is consistent with regional energy initiatives. The narrative provides specific details about the collaboration, including areas of focus and planned activities, which are corroborated by other reputable sources.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is fresh, original, and supported by reputable sources. The quotes are unique, and the claims are plausible and corroborated by other reputable outlets. No significant credibility risks were identified.
