Dubai: Dubai is pursuing the solidification of its role as a key participant in the global economy and trade by utilizing enhanced infrastructure and reliable services. With a focus on sustainability, the metropolis is also investing in essential projects related to electricity and water production to aid long-term human development.
DEWA’s role in enhancing Dubai’s position as a leading global hub in energy and water production
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is at the forefront of those efforts, striving to make Dubai a global leader in power production. DEWA has launched many strategic initiatives and green projects for clean energy production and water desalination. It serves over 1.2 million clients with highly reliable and efficient services. DEWA has ceased new fossil fuel projects, alternatively opting for the Independent Water and Power Producer (IWPP) model, attracting over $11.71 billion (AED 43 billion) in private sector investments.
Etihad ESCO and Energy Efficiency
In 2013, DEWA set up Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO) to boost energy efficiency and create investment opportunities. Etihad ESCO supports the Dubai Demand Side Strategy 2030, which aims to reduce the demand for electricity and water by 30 percent. The corporation plans to retrofit over 30,000 buildings in Dubai to improve energy performance by 2030.
Green Charger Initiative for EVs
DEWA’s EV Green Charger Initiative promotes the multiplication of electric car charging stations in Dubai. With over seven hundred charging stations already established, including 400 Green Charging Stations operated by DEWA, the initiative supports the UAE’s intention to have 50 percent of automobiles be electrically powered or hybrid by 2050. This aligns with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, promoting green mobility and sustainability.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
One of DEWA’s major accomplishments is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world’s largest single-site solar park. The potential current capacity is 2,860MW, with plans to reach 5,000MW by 2030. The solar park drastically reduces carbon emissions and has led to significant economic benefits through the sale of international Renewable Energy Certificates (i-RECs).
DEWA’s global achievements and future projects
DEWA has achieved world-leading efficiency in electricity and water networks, with minimal losses and low Customer Minutes Lost (CML). DEWA has reduced losses in electricity transmission and distribution networks to a leading world record of 2.0 percent, and the loss in water transmission and distribution networks to 4.6 percent. In 2023, DEWA reported consolidated revenues of $7.95 billion (AED 29.2 billion), and a net profit of $2.15 billion (AED 7.9 billion).
The Hassyan desalination project uses Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology and solar energy. DEWA’s water production capacity will increase to 670 MIGD when the project is completed in 2027.
Job Opportunities and Emiratization
DEWA aims to provide numerous job opportunities by attracting and empowering national competencies and talents in the energy and water sectors.
DEWA’s Research and Development (R&D) Centre provides advanced research facilities and laboratories, thereby fostering Dubai’s position as a global hub for research and development.
DEWA’s Innovation Centre aims to attract emerging innovations, create innovative concepts, and develop projects to enhance the future of sustainable energy in Dubai and the world. With strategic investments and sustainable projects, Dubai continues to reinforce its status as a global economic and trade hub, paving the way for a greener, more efficient future.