Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has announced a new project to install photovoltaic (PV) solar panels in 10 percent of UAE nationals’ homes in Dubai. This will be connected to the grid and will be part of achieving the objectives laid down by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in the 50-year charter.
Etihad Esco will oversee the implementation of the project, which includes the installation of energy-saving lights and water-savers to rationalise the use of electricity and water.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, the managing director and CEO of Dewa said: “We have developed a plan to implement the directives of His Highness in article number 7, which is related to energy-self-sufficiency in 10 percent of citizens’ homes. The project will be completed before the end of 2019, and DEWA will bear all the costs of the project.”
DEWA said that the government is exploring various sustainable solutions to meet growing demand in the energy sector, a crucial pillar in Dubai’s development plans, through the latest technologies. It added that the utility is developing reliable renewable energy sources as part of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
“As soon as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid launched the 50-Year Charter, we pledged to abide by it. This has nine articles that incorporate his vision for the future of Dubai and the life he wishes for everyone living in this community. This will raise Dubai’s position as a role model for ensuring the happiness and comfort of its citizens,” noted Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council.
DEWA also said they announced the tender on January 17, for which they received 13 bids from companies listed under the Shams Dubai initiative. After assessing the bids, letters of assignment were sent to six companies which started the process of implementing the project in accordance with the criteria set by Dewa, it added.