Latest news with #EtihadWaterandElectricity
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
From solar rooftops to carbon capture: UAE powers Net Zero future through innovation and a clear strategy, say experts
30 July 2025 00:49 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI) With the UAE sprinting towards Net Zero, innovation, policy and public engagement are driving the nation closer to a low-carbon future, experts across industries have told Aletihad . A detailed, nationwide action plan has been set for the UAE to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 – and power has been identified as one of the six sectors at the heart of the provider Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE), which serves the Northern Emirates, empowers its communities to actively participate in the energy Distributed Solar System (DSS) initiative – in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure – enables residents, businesses, and agricultural entities to become 'prosumers'. Through the EtihadWE's rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems, its prosumers are able to generate clean solar energy and contribute some surplus back to the grid. 'This approach delivers tangible environmental benefits. While the full impact on carbon emissions is subject to ongoing measurement, the early adoption rates, positive feedback, and growing number of certified installations are highly encouraging,' Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, told Aletihad . 'This initiative directly contributes to the UAE's ambitious clean energy targets and underscores our commitment to a sustainable future, one rooftop at a time.'Leveraging advanced technologies, the utility provider has also deployed nearly 500,000 smart meters, covering more than half of its network. Full coverage is expected by 2026. These meters provide real-time data that supports leak detection, accurate demand forecasting, and AI-driven predictive maintenance.'Ultimately, this technological leap translates directly into reduced waste, improved service reliability, and a more responsive utility for our customers,' Al Ali terms of water management, EtihadWE has taken a unique path by relying entirely on reverse osmosis (RO) desalination.'Our NAQA'A plant, one of the world's largest RO facilities, stands as a testament to this commitment – delivering large-scale water production with a significantly lower carbon footprint, and reinforcing EtihadWE's role in advancing both water and energy security,' said Al integration of clean energy into existing infrastructure is central to EtihadWE's low-carbon strategy, the CEO added. Beyond Clean EnergyThe country, led by Abu Dhabi, has built a solid reputation as a key player in industrial decarbonisation 'because it pairs state-level ambition with tangible delivery', said Timothy Hurst, Group Managing Director and Energy and Industrials Lead for EMEA at Burson. 'The UAE is not waiting for future breakthroughs, but using every lever today to build a credible clean energy platform,' said Hurst, who has supported clients for communications at COP28 and other global investments in clean energy and AI, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) is another technology that bolsters efforts to 'reduce emissions from energy-intensive and hard-to-abate industries without slowing growth', he Dhabi is home to one of MENA region's largest CCUS projects. Sustainable energy solutions provider Everllance supplies critical technologies to this CCUS initiative, while providing support across ADNOC's oil, gas, and maritime operations. 'We expect to see a rapid expansion of CCUS projects. For example, ADNOC is targeting to capture 10 million tonnes CO₂ per year by 2030,' Gaby Hanna, Senior Vice President and Head of Region MEA at Everllence, told Aletihad . 'If this vision is realised, the UAE will take regional leadership of CCUS.' Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Mid East Info
28-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
On the Sidelines of World Utilities Congress 2025 EtihadWE and Emarat Formalise Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Customer Experience Through EmCan Loyalty Program
Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) on the sidelines of the World Utilities Congress 2025, marking a new phase of collaboration that brings EmCan — the loyalty program — into the utilities sector. The signing ceremony was held in the presence of H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Chairman of both EtihadWE and Emarat. Through this partnership, EtihadWE becomes the first utility provider in the UAE to integrate with a loyalty platform. Customers can now earn EmCan points by paying their utility bills via EtihadWE's digital platforms within five days of the bill issue date. Each qualifying payment earns 1,000 EmCan points — equivalent to AED 10 — redeemable at Emarat stations and across a wide network of partner outlets, including retail, dining, and lifestyle destinations across the UAE. 'This partnership reflects our continued commitment to innovation that delivers real value to our customers,' said Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE. 'By turning everyday transactions like bill payments into rewarding experiences, we are deepening engagement and offering tangible benefits that strengthen trust and loyalty.' Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO of Emarat, added: 'Our collaboration with EtihadWE is a meaningful step in extending EmCan to essential public services. By rewarding routine actions, we make loyalty more relevant, accessible, and part of customers' daily lives.' The signing took place during EtihadWE's participation at the World Utilities Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi (27–29 May), where the company is showcasing key national projects shaping the future of the water and energy sectors: Naqa'a Seawater Reverse Osmosis Plant: One of the world's largest SWRO facilities, producing up to 250 million cubic metres of potable water annually using advanced technology. The plant operates with over 60% less energy than conventional systems. Khuraijah Water Storage and Distribution Centre: With a total storage capacity of 180 million gallons across nine tanks, the centre uses gravity-fed distribution from its 80-metre elevation, saving about 36 million kilowatt-hours and over AED 16 million annually. Distributed Solar System Project: In collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, this initiative enables customers to install rooftop solar panels and feed excess power into the grid in exchange for energy credits, reducing bills and supporting national clean energy goals. AMI Smart Metering Project: A long-term program for full smart meter deployment across the Northern Emirates, enabling automatic readings, early fault detection, and improved operational efficiency. EtihadWE's participation at the Congress reaffirms its commitment to innovation and long-term sustainability — continuously advancing services that meet the evolving needs of communities across the UAE.
Mid East Info
14-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Strengthens Clean Energy Collaboration in High-Level Visit to Spain - Middle East Business News and Information
Delegation Led by Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and Etihad Water and Electricity Explores Renewable Energy Innovations The Visit Aimed to Strengthen Collaboration with Spanish Research Centres to Advance Renewable Energy Solutions Dubai, UAE, May 2025: In a strategic effort to reinforce the UAE's leadership in renewable energy, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), in collaboration with Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE), led an official delegation to Spain. The visit aimed to explore partnerships with leading research institutions and assess cutting-edge global technologies in solar energy and energy storage, advancing the UAE's efforts to promote a just energy transition. The UAE delegation was headed by His Excellency Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, and Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity. The visit aligns with the shared commitment of MOEI and EtihadWE to drive innovation, future-focused infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships with global energy leaders. The mission is in line with the UAE's efforts to accelerate its clean energy transition, enhance infrastructure readiness, and adopt global best practices. It also strengthens the UAE's position as a hub for sustainable energy and advanced technology. For Etihad Water and Electricity, the visit supports the development of the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Park in Ras Al Khaimah—a flagship national clean energy project. The company also seeks to leverage global expertise in managing advanced energy centres. The delegation visited several prominent institutions, including Spain's Centre for Energy, Environmental and Technological Research (CIEMAT), a leading European research organization under the Ministry of Science and Innovation. During high-level discussions with Her Excellency Dr. Yolanda Benito Moreno, CIEMAT's Director-General, the delegation explored potential collaborations across various fields. The visit was followed by a guided tour of CIEMAT's laboratories, showcasing pioneering research projects and cutting-edge technological applications. The delegation also toured the Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), Europe's largest concentrated solar research facility, where they examined thermal storage systems and desert-condition simulation technologies—key areas for potential joint research with the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Park. Additionally, the visit included the Gemasolar Thermosolar Plant, one of the world's first solar facilities to use thermal storage for continuous electricity generation. This project exemplifies a sustainable, round-the-clock model for renewable energy generation that aligns with MOEI and EtihadWE's aim to integrate more renewables into the UAE's power grid. Through this visit, MOEI and EtihadWE sought to establish long-term partnerships with leading research institutions, supporting the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and empowering national talent with access to global innovations.
Mid East Info
06-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
EtihadWE Appoints First Chief People Officer (CPO) - Middle East Business News and Information
Etihad Water and Electricity EtihadWE has announced the appointment of Shaikha Murad AlBlooshi as Chief People Officer CPO. This appointment comes as part of the company's ongoing efforts to evolve its leadership structure in line with its refreshed corporate identity and updated strategic vision, which focuses on fostering innovation, improving organisational performance, and positioning human capital as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and long-term competitiveness. It also reflects EtihadWE's continued commitment to empowering national talent and cultivating a dynamic, future-oriented workplace capable of translating strategic plans into tangible outcomes. Emiratis currently constitute approximately 80% of the company's workforce, with nearly 70% representation in leadership positions. Women make up 56% of total staff, including 28% in specialised technical roles. Commenting on the appointment, Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity, stated: 'This appointment reflects our strategic focus on developing human capital, enhancing our corporate culture, and reinforcing our innovation efforts. It represents a pivotal step in advancing national capabilities, fostering an engaging work environment, and ensuring workforce readiness—ultimately contributing to the quality of services we deliver to the community and enabling long-term professional growth to meet future challenges.' AlBlooshi brings over 20 years of professional and leadership experience in the UAE's utilities and services sectors, with an extensive background in general management and financial leadership. Since joining EtihadWE, she has held several senior roles, including Director of Finance, Executive Director of Shared Services, and Senior Vice President – Human Capital and Administration. She is known for a leadership style rooted in empowerment and operational excellence, aligned with the company's vision for sustainable development and institutional distinction. This appointment is part of a broader series of executive-level updates across EtihadWE's leadership team, which also includes the positions of Chief Operations Officer (COO), Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer CSTO, Chief Financial Officer CFO, and Chief Commercial Officer CCO.
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
EtihadWE Marks World Day for Safety and Health at Work with a Week of Awareness Activities - Middle East Business News and Information
Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) reaffirmed its commitment to cultivating a safe and healthy work environment by hosting a dedicated week of awareness and engagement activities in line with the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, observed annually on 28 April. Held under the theme of shared responsibility and proactive prevention, the week-long programme featured a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening occupational health and safety practices across all levels of the organisation. A series of awareness sessions were organised in collaboration with the Civil Defence, drawing significant participation from staff involved in field operations and site supervision. Other sessions, led by internal teams, addressed everyday risks and highlighted the importance of adhering to safe work practices. The week also included interactive competitions, quizzes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that encouraged greater involvement from employees across departments. Commenting on the occasion, Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity, said: 'At EtihadWE, safety is a shared responsibility and a core value — not just a protocol. Our people are at the heart of every plan we execute and every service we provide, and it is our duty to ensure they return home safely every day. Through continuous awareness, active participation, and clear procedures, we aim to build a workplace where everyone feels empowered and protected.' The company's Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Department plays a central role in driving this culture of prevention. Throughout the year, the department implements structured awareness programmes, including onsite guidance, first aid training, fire safety workshops, and targeted safety e-messages. In 2024 alone, EtihadWE conducted 142 training sessions and 64 evacuation drills across various sites. Additionally, regular inspections are carried out to monitor compliance with safety standards and assess both active and occupied work areas, helping to identify and mitigate potential risks. The company also maintains a robust emergency response and evacuation framework, with clear protocols for scenarios such as fires, chemical spills, injuries, and natural disasters. By integrating education, oversight, and preparedness, EtihadWE continues to ensure that occupational safety remains a cornerstone of its operational excellence.
