Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has launched an ambitious project to install photovoltaic (PV) solar panels in a tenth of the homes of UAE nationals in Dubai and connect them to its grid as part of achieving the objectives laid down by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in the 50-year charter.
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, said a statement from Dewa.
The utility is developing reliable renewable energy sources as part of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, it added.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, said that the Eight Principles of Governance and the 50-Year Charter, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, represent a roadmap for the government’s work in the coming phase of development.
"Dubai Government has started implementing the charter, which will raise the emirate’s profile globally and contribute to further enhancing the quality of life of its residents," he noted.
Sheikh Hamdan said the 50-Year Charter guides the development of strategic plans and new projects of all government entities. He expressed confidence that the government will meet His Highness’s expectations and achieve the Charter’s objectives.
Dewa is the first government department to implement the 50-Year Charter, which outlines plans to shape the future of Dubai and enhance the happiness and prosperity of its citizens.
"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.
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," he stated.
Al Tayer said the Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad Esco) will oversee the implementation of the project, which also includes the installation of energy-saving lights and water-savers to rationalize the use of electricity and water.
The tender was announced on January 17. Dewa received 13 bids from companies listed under the Shams Dubai initiative.
After opening and evaluating the bids, letters of assignment were sent to six companies, which start the process of implementing the project in accordance with the criteria set by Dewa.
