In celebration of World Environment Day, themed “Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration,” the UAE highlighted its significant strides in renewable energy and emission reduction. Under the visionary leadership of the UAE, the nation has emerged as a global leader in sustainable energy initiatives, with substantial investments in solar energy and other renewable sources.
According to the Statistical Review of World Energy by the UK-based Energy Institute, the UAE ranks as the sixth highest per capita consumer of solar energy globally. This achievement underscores the country’s dedication to transitioning to clean energy.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), emphasized the UAE’s pioneering role in climate action. He noted that DEWA is implementing major projects to increase the share of renewable energy in Dubai’s energy mix. These efforts align with the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, aiming for 100% clean energy production by 2050.
DEWA’s flagship project, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, is set to achieve a production capacity of over 5,000 MW by 2030. Currently, the park produces 2,860 MW, with an additional 2,033 MW under construction. The solar park has set records for the tallest Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) tower and the largest thermal energy storage plant. Once complete, the park will reduce carbon emissions by more than 6.5 million tonnes annually.
In addition to solar power, DEWA has initiated a green hydrogen project within the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This project aims to position the UAE as a global competitor in the green hydrogen market, utilizing renewable energy for the electrolysis of water.
Moreover, DEWA is constructing the GCC region’s first hydroelectric power plant in Hatta. The 250 MW plant will use water from the Hatta Dam to generate electricity, with a storage capacity of 1,500 MWh and an 80-year lifespan. This innovative project will ensure efficient power generation and storage, with a rapid response to electricity demand.
DEWA is also advancing sustainable water desalination with a project in Hassyan, employing Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology. This project, the largest of its kind globally, aims to produce 100% of desalinated water using clean energy by 2030.
To promote green mobility, DEWA launched the Green Charger Initiative in 2014, establishing a network of over 700 electric vehicle charging stations across Dubai. This initiative supports the UAE’s goal of becoming the smartest and happiest city in the world.
Since 2013, DEWA has published its annual Sustainability Report, adhering to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards. This report provides a transparent and comprehensive overview of DEWA’s achievements in sustainability.
The UAE’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainability showcases its leadership in global climate action and its dedication to a greener future.
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