Dubai Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainability at Energy Industry Conference

At the Energy Industry Conference (EIC) today, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), highlighted Dubai’s dedication to a sustainable energy future. The event, held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, emphasized the UAE’s vision for a clean energy transition.

The conference, organized by Marsh and themed “Accelerating Towards a Sustainable Energy Future,” took place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City. It brought together global policymakers, energy leaders, and innovators to discuss strategies for a clean energy future.

Key Figures Attend Opening Ceremony

Among the attendees were HE Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Finance; HE Marwan bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality; HE Ahmed Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of Dubai Supreme Council of Energy; and industry leaders such as HE Abdulla bin Kalban, Managing Director of Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), and HE Saif Humaid Al Falasi, CEO of Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC).

Commitment to Net-Zero by 2050

In his opening remarks, Al Tayer underscored Dubai’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with the UAE’s strategic goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. He also emphasized the historic UAE Consensus reached at COP28, which called for an orderly and equitable transition away from fossil fuels.

Al Tayer highlighted Dubai’s integrated approach, which includes enhancing climate resilience, ensuring energy security, and supporting the transition to clean energy. “Sustainability is embedded in our DNA, and we strive to meet the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050,” Al Tayer said.

Advancements in Solar Energy and Green Initiatives

Al Tayer highlighted significant achievements in Dubai’s solar energy sector. Since the launch of the world’s largest solar park by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2012, Dubai’s solar energy capacity has reached 3,060 MW by the end of 2024, contributing 17.8% to the energy mix. The park’s 950 MW fourth phase includes the world’s tallest solar tower and the largest thermal storage capacity, according to Guinness World Records.

DEWA is also constructing the first pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in the GCC, which will provide 250 MW of clean energy and 1,500 MWh of energy storage. Additionally, DEWA commissioned the MENA region’s first industrial-scale green hydrogen production facility, powered by solar energy.

Dubai’s Green Transformation Across the Energy Sector

Al Tayer emphasized that Dubai’s green transformation extends beyond electricity. ENOC has led the way in sustainability, fueling the world’s first 100% sustainable aviation fuel-powered flight and launching the MENA region’s first green hydrogen refueling station at Expo City Dubai. The station, the world’s first LEED Platinum-certified facility, integrates renewable energy and smart technologies.

Meanwhile, Dragon Oil has reduced its carbon footprint with a solar hybrid power system at its water injection platform, and introduced vapour recovery from crude oil storage tanks in Turkmenistan, reducing CO2 emissions by about 25,000 tonnes annually.

AI Driving Innovation in Energy

Al Tayer noted the importance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in driving energy innovations. DEWA’s use of AI in energy resource optimization, smart grids, predictive maintenance, and carbon emission reduction has improved efficiency and reduced costs. DEWA also integrated ChatGPT to enhance customer experience through digital platforms, and has started a roadmap to integrate generative AI to further improve operations and customer satisfaction.

Green Infrastructure and Future Goals

DEWA’s commitment to green infrastructure is reflected in its 10 LEED-certified buildings, which promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions. The organization’s new headquarters, Al-Shera’a, will be the tallest, largest, and smartest net-positive government building in the world.

Al Tayer concluded, “As we look ahead, meeting the global demand for clean and sustainable energy is crucial. By diversifying energy sources, investing in renewables, and advancing technology, we are contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future. Let us work together to turn challenges into opportunities and accelerate progress toward a clean energy future for all.”