DEWA keeps environment healthy with zero-emission projects, says Saeed Al Tayer
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is advancing clean energy projects to meet sustainability goals, inspired by UAE leadership.
- DEWA aims to achieve 100% clean energy capacity by 2050, with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park's capacity set to exceed 8,000 MW by 2030.
- The authority is also implementing projects like the Hatta hydroelectric power plant and mangrove reforestation initiatives to protect habitats and reduce pollution.
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is actively pursuing clean energy infrastructure projects, drawing inspiration from the UAE's leadership in climate action and sustainable development. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, stated that the authority is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability, aiming to make the UAE a global model in these areas.
DEWA is working towards the goals of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. A key initiative is the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, currently the world's largest single-site solar park operating under the Independent Power Producer model. Its production capacity is set to increase from the current 3,860 MW to over 8,000 MW by 2030, surpassing the original plan of 5,000 MW. This expansion will boost the share of clean energy in Dubai's energy mix to 36%, exceeding the initial target of 25%.
Further contributing to the clean energy goals is the hydroelectric power plant in Hatta, utilizing pumped-storage technology. This plant, the first of its kind in the GCC region, has a production capacity of 250 MW and a storage capacity of 1,500 MWh, with a lifespan of up to 80 years. It enhances energy storage capabilities and supports sustainable development.
Beyond energy production, DEWA's initiatives focus on environmental protection. These include efforts to safeguard terrestrial and marine habitats and encourage community participation in sustainability. DEWA has organized campaigns to plant mangrove trees and clean beaches, notably at the Jabal Ali Marine Sanctuary. Since 2023, over 14,650 mangrove trees have been planted, and significant amounts of waste, primarily plastic, have been collected during beach cleanups involving numerous volunteers.
At DEWA, we draw inspiration for our efforts in protecting the environment and promoting sustainability from the directives of the wise leadership, which has made the United Arab Emirates a global model in climate action, sustainable development, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.
Originally published by Gulf Today. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.