Adapting to climate change and mitigating its effects are critical efforts to ensuring the sustainability of life on Earth, especially as these changes accelerate and natural resources decline. Adopting sustainable solutions in the energy and water sectors is a global priority to combat this challenge. Innovation is a key pillar for achieving environmental sustainability and reducing carbon footprints through advanced technologies that enhance resource efficiency and cut emissions. The UAE is a pioneer in supporting innovation and sustainability, thanks to the forward-looking vision of its wise leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Years ago, the UAE launched ambitious strategies, including the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 to increase the share of clean energy, as well as the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the Water Security Strategy 2036 to ensure sustainable water resources, making the UAE a global role model.

In Dubai, we have a clear road map based on the latest technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, to improve efficiency in the energy and water sectors. This aligns with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 to provide 100% of the energy production capacity from clean sources by 2050. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is a global model in embracing innovation to promote sustainability through its ambitious projects and initiatives, developing a world-class clean energy and desalination infrastructure.

One of our most prominent global projects in renewable energy is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world, which is based on the independent power producer (IPP) model and uses photovoltaic panels and concentrated solar power (CSP). The solar park’s current production capacity stands at 3,460MW, , approximately 20% of Dubai’s energy mix. Its production capacity will reach around 7,260MW by 2030, reducing carbon emissions by more than 8 million tonnes annually and effectively contributing to the UAE’s ambitious sustainability goals.

The solar park stands as a global success story, achieving Guinness World Records with two exceptional titles that embody the spirit of innovation. Located in the heart of Dubai’s desert, the project features the world’s tallest CSP tower at over 263 metres, marking a unique engineering achievement. It also boasts the world’s largest thermal storage capacity, an advanced system that converts sunlight into long-duration stored energy, ensuring electricity generation even after sunset. These records are not merely indicators of excellence but part of a larger vision that reflects the UAE's commitment to leading the global transition towards sustainability.

Additionally, as part of the expansion towards future solutions, we launched the first project of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa to produce green hydrogen using solar energy, within the Research and Development Centre at the solar park. This project, using renewable energy-based water electrolysis technology, will be a key pillar in the global energy sector’s transformation towards clean alternatives. The project is expected to contribute to reducing green hydrogen production costs and establish the UAE as a leading hub for sustainable energy.

We are also implementing a 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power station in Hatta, the first of its kind in the GCC region. This reflects our strategy to diversify energy sources and adopt sustainable technologies that support the transition towards a green economy.

Additionally, we have launched two nanosatellites, ‘DEWA Sat-1’ and ‘DEWA Sat-2’, as part of our Space-D programme. This initiative enhances network efficiency using remote sensing technologies and accurate space data. DEWA is the first utility in the world to use nanosatellites to improve its operations, reaffirming our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies for sustainability.

We also spearhead global desalination efforts by building water production plants based on seawater reverse osmosis technology, which requires less energy than multi-stage distillation plants, making it more sustainable. By 2030, we aim to produce 100% of Dubai’s desalinated water using a mix of clean energy and waste heat.

Innovation has helped DEWA achieve first place in 12 key performance indicators, according to a study conducted by a specialised global consultant. Some of these achievements include the world’s lowest customer minutes lost (CML) at an average of 0.94 minutes per year, 4.5% water network losses, 2% electricity transmission and distribution network losses, and raising fuel heat utilisation of generation units to approximately 90%, one of the highest globally.

We believe that innovation is key to achieving sustainability in the energy and water sectors. Through the vision and support of our wise leadership, the development of ambitious strategies, and the adoption of modern technologies, we remain committed to advancing the sustainability agenda. Our efforts support the global transition towards sustainable practices in the energy and water sectors, enhancing Dubai's position as a global hub for sustainability and the green economy.