Dubai: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) continues to strengthen its role in supporting local and global efforts to protect the environment through an integrated portfolio of projects and initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, enhance resource efficiency, and accelerate the transition towards clean energy and a green economy. World Environment Day, observed annually on 5th June and held this year under the theme "Now For Climate", highlights that environmental protection is a strategic necessity closely linked to the future of development, quality of life, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.
According to Emirates News Agency, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, stated that guided by the vision and directives of the leadership, DEWA applies an integrated approach placing sustainability at the core of all plans, projects, and initiatives. This involves investing in pioneering projects in clean and renewable energy, improving resource efficiency, and developing innovative solutions supporting the achievement of net-zero emissions. Al Tayer emphasized DEWA's commitment to complying with the highest local, federal, and international standards across all projects and operations, reinforcing an integrated environmental system that protects natural resources, reduces waste, and preserves biodiversity.
DEWA's efforts support the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, aiming to provide 100 percent of the emirate's energy production capacity from clean sources by 2050. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, implemented by DEWA, is the largest single-site solar park in the world based on the independent power producer model, with a planned production capacity exceeding 8,000 megawatts (MW) by 2030. Currently, its capacity stands at 3,860MW, using the latest photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies.
The Green Hydrogen project, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa, uses solar energy to produce hydrogen, store it, and convert it back into electricity, in addition to other applications. The project produces approximately 20 kilogrammes of hydrogen per hour, with a storage tank capable of holding up to 240 kilogrammes. The plant serves as a flexible platform for testing future hydrogen applications, generating electricity through a generator with a capacity of around 300 kilowatts.
DEWA's 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in Hatta is the first of its kind in the GCC region, with a storage capacity of 1,500 megawatt-hours and a lifespan of up to 80 years. Launched in 2014, the Green Charger initiative aims to develop an integrated charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs), supporting green mobility and aligning with Dubai's vision to be the smartest and happiest city in the world. The network comprises more than 2,223 charging points across Dubai.
DEWA also applies the highest international and local standards for green buildings across all its assets and is committed to improving the efficiency of resource use throughout the building lifecycle. Currently, 10 DEWA buildings are certified to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. Al Shera'a, DEWA's new headquarters, is designed to be the tallest, largest, and smartest net-positive government building in the world, aiming for LEED Platinum and WELL Gold certifications. The building incorporates advanced technologies, including the Internet of Things, big and open data, and AI, alongside the latest renewable energy solutions.