EtihadWE looks to enhance renewable energy in the UAE

EtihadWE has partnered with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) on a collaborative initiative aimed at promoting the utilisation of renewable energy in the Northern Emirates.

The Distributed Solar System (DSS) project allows EtihadWE customers to generate solar power through rooftop PV systems installed on their properties, with the generated power being fed back into the grid, boosting the overall supply of renewable energy.

The project aligns with the wise directives of 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, for the sustainable and clean energy development of the UAE’s energy sector.

Launched in July 2023, the project began with a feasibility study to assess the financial and technical impacts of connecting DSS to the grid. EtihadWE has also developed regulations and technical guidelines for the systems in cooperation with MoEI.

As the certified installer, EtihadWE will provide certified contractors to install the solar panels, ensuring compliance with the latest safety standards.

Through this initiative, EtihadWE customers—including residential, industrial, and agricultural sectors—will have access to rooftop PV systems, allowing them to generate solar energy.

Renewables in the UAE

The solar power generated will be absorbed back into the grid, contributing to the renewable energy supply in the Northern Emirates.

While consumers will not directly utilise the energy produced by their solar panels, they will benefit from reduced energy bills by contributing to the renewable energy grid.

Participants in the initiative will have two meters: one to measure energy exported to the grid and another to measure energy imported. Each month, the exported vs imported energy will be tracked. If exports exceed imports, the excess energy will be credited to the customer’s account for use within the same year.

This initiative is part of a long-term strategy to increase accessibility to renewable energy in the Northern Emirates.

The project aims to create a more sustainable energy supply that reduces the carbon footprint and promotes cleaner energy sources.

His Excellency Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, stated, “The DSS project is a major contribution to the UAE’s shift to clean energy sources. It reflects our steadfast commitment to fast-tracking renewable energy deployment and the country’s sustainable development. We are pleased to partner with EtihadWE on this project that will pave the way for wider community engagement in building a more sustainable, energy-secure future.”

He added, “The project supports the long-term objectives of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, including increasing the contribution of clean energy generation to 32%, ensuring the country is on track to meet its commitment to tripling the share of renewable energy by 2030 in line with the UAE Consensus. Such projects significantly contribute to enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness rankings.”

EtihadWE CEO, Yousif Ahmed Al Ali remarked, “This major solar initiative marks a significant step in EtihadWE’s progress towards enhancing renewable energy in the Northern Emirates. We are embracing new technology to improve our operations, offer, products and customer service, whilst making our commitment to sustainability clear.”

“Through this project, we demonstrate our dedication to aligning our strategic approach with the UAE government’s directives to transition towards a future fuelled by sustainable energy.”

For businesses, the new project will lower operational costs and contribute to the development of more sustainable business models. The roll-out will commence with industrial customers in the initial phase.

EtihadWE also plans to host a series of workshops to educate customers on the initiative and its benefits, encouraging the broader adoption of solar energy solutions.