DEWA's initiatives save over Dh 840 million

Dubai - A total of 714,000 tonnes of carbon emissions were also reduced since the launch of the different initiatives.

Through its conservation and awareness initiatives, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) was able to save more than Dh840 million.
The amount translates to conserving 1,344 gigawatt of electricity and 5.6 billion gallons of water. A total of 714,000 tonnes of carbon emissions were also reduced since the launch of the different initiatives.  
The government facility officials made the statement during a press conference that announced completion of preparations for the launch of the 18th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2016, which will be held from Oct. 4-6 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
"As we aim to make Dubai the most sustainable city in the world, it means full commitment to the concept of sustainability through different strategies, policies and programs," said Khawla Al Mehairi, chairwoman of the Marketing and Media Committee at DEWA.
She also highlighted the importance of different community initiatives that help change people's behaviour towards adopting more sustainable habits. "The Best Consumer Award benefited more than 600 residents, the conservation award targeted about 200,000 individuals and through residential neighbourhoods' initiatives, we were able to reach more than 4,000 houses in Dubai," said Al Mehairi.
She added that community initiatives are part of a long-term agenda to reduce energy and water demand by 30 per cent by 2030.
To reduce carbon emissions, 30,000 buildings are being rehabilitated besides Shams Dubai rewards and a thorough infrastructure to be developed for electric cars.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, Founder and Chairman of WETEX said the exhibition will feature the first Dubai Solar Show, which will provide a platform for public and private sectors to build partnerships and review latest technologies in solar energy given the accelerated pace of the sector's growth in the region.
Shams Dubai, an initiative that encourages residents and companies to install solar rooftops has recently been a point of emphasis. Al Tayer said many government buildings already installed solar rooftops, with much interest from the market. He added a new initiative will be launched during the exhibition to accelerate the PV (Photovoltaic) installations.
An Innovation Hall will also be added for the first time in partnership with 14 different universities to urge innovators from the UAE and around the world to deliver innovative products and solutions.
Al Tayer noted that Wetex this year witnessed a 12 per cent increase of participation as it attracted 1,900 exhibitors from 46 countries around the world, compared with 1,696 exhibitors last year.
In addition, the show will host 18 national pavilions, and 29 government organisations. Over 23,000 visitors are expected to visit, he noted.
WETEX tackles the environmental issues and current challenges faced by most of countries worldwide.
The show will review the latest developments and innovations by participants, which will reflect on the role of Dubai as a global hub in line with Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
sherouk@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE