Shams Dubai Rooftop Solar Initiative Connects Over 725 MW to Grid Across 8,430 Buildings

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) announced that its flagship rooftop solar program, Shams Dubai, has connected more than 725 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) capacity across 8,430 buildings to the emirate’s power distribution grid.

The initiative enables homeowners and commercial property owners to install solar PV systems and feed excess power into DEWA’s grid, contributing to the emirate’s clean energy transition and long-term net-zero targets.

In its latest update, DEWA attributed the program’s growing success to the integration of Hab Reeh, an interactive digital platform that facilitates self-assessment of PV system designs, simplifies application procedures, and helps reduce both approval times and installation costs.

According to Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, the platform handled more than 1,700 solar connection requests in 2024, marking a 30% year-on-year increase. The platform also gives users access to a curated list of over 150 DEWA-approved PV components from global manufacturers and offers flexible design tools for customized rooftop solar solutions.

Earlier this month, DEWA also reported that 111 certified companies are now authorized to carry out system design and implementation under the Shams Dubai framework, reflecting the ecosystem’s rapid professional expansion.

Shams Dubai plays a key role in achieving the goals of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim to provide 100% of Dubai’s power capacity from clean energy sources by mid-century.