EtihadWE has partnered with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) to launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting the renewable energy industry in the Northern Emirates. This collaboration seeks to advance solar energy adoption through the Distributed Solar System (DSS) project, allowing EtihadWE customers to generate solar power via rooftop PV systems on their properties. The generated energy will be fed back into the grid, contributing to the overall renewable energy supply in the region.
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Promoting Clean Energy in the UAE
The DSS project is aligned with the sustainability vision of UAE leadership, following the 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, for clean energy development. This initiative is a crucial step in supporting the country’s energy transition and the future of its energy sector.
Regulations and Project Launch
Since the project’s launch in July 2023, EtihadWE and MoEI have been conducting feasibility studies and assessments to understand the financial and technical impacts of integrating DSS into the grid. As part of this, EtihadWE has developed necessary regulations and technical guidelines to ensure the seamless implementation of solar systems. The company, as the certified installer, will also provide trained contractors to handle the installations, adhering to the highest safety standards.
Expanding Solar Power Accessibility
The DSS initiative is not limited to residential customers but also extends to industrial and agricultural sectors. With rooftop PV systems, these customers will generate solar power, which will be absorbed back into the grid, enhancing the renewable energy supply in the Northern Emirates.
Financial Benefits for Customers
Although customers won’t directly use the energy produced by their solar panels, they will experience financial savings. The initiative features a dual-meter system to track both the energy exported to the grid and the energy imported for use. Any surplus energy exported to the grid will be credited to the customer’s account, helping reduce their energy bills.
Supporting the UAE’s Clean Energy Strategy
EtihadWE’s initiative supports the UAE’s long-term renewable energy goals, including the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which targets a 32% contribution from clean energy sources. According to Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, the DSS project is a “major contribution to the UAE’s shift to clean energy sources” and reflects the country’s dedication to fast-tracking renewable energy adoption.
Commitment to Sustainability
EtihadWE CEO, Eng Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, emphasized the significance of the project in reinforcing the company’s sustainability objectives. He stated, “This major solar initiative marks a significant step in EtihadWE’s progress towards enhancing renewable energy in the Northern Emirates. Through this project, we demonstrate our dedication to aligning our strategic approach with the UAE government’s directives to transition towards a future powered by sustainable energy.”
A Sustainable Future for the Northern Emirates
The DSS project is a crucial component of the UAE’s broader strategy to build a more sustainable and energy-secure future. By enabling wider community engagement and contributing to the country’s renewable energy goals, this initiative is set to transform the renewable energy industry in the Northern Emirates, paving the way for a greener, cleaner future.
