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Emirates 24/7
11 hours ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer honoured as the first outstanding civilian leader by Sandhurst " Lifetime of Leadership Excellence Award"
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has been awarded the inaugural "Life of Leadership Excellence Award" by the Sandhurst in London, United Kingdom. Al Tayer is the first recipient of this globally prestigious award in the civilian sector, which recognises his exceptional leadership journey and transformative contributions to the energy and water sectors, as well as his embodiment of the UAE's values and visionary leadership. This distinguished honour celebrates a career defined by excellence, innovation, and service, which has contributed significantly to positioning Dubai and the UAE as global leaders in sustainable energy, utility services, and institutional advancement. The Sandhurst Life of Leadership Excellence Award is considered one of the highest international accolades, honouring leaders whose legacy continues to shape their industries and communities in lasting and meaningful ways—reflecting the highest ideals championed by the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Vaughan Kent-Payne, Director of The Sandhurst Trust, declared: "The Sandhurst motto 'Serve to Lead' defines our ethos. Officer cadets learn that true leadership is rooted in service to those they command. It is therefore a profound honour to bestow this inaugural award upon His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), in recognition of his exceptional service and visionary leadership. This award is not just deserved – it is emblematic of the very principles we uphold." His Excellency Al Tayer said: 'In the UAE, leading by example is embedded in our DNA. It is my honour to present this award to the wise leadership led by 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. Their unwavering commitment to excellence sets the standard we strive to uphold and resonates profoundly within all our institutions.' His Excellency added: 'We are guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who presents an exceptional leadership model for the United Arab Emirates and the world. This model will remain a unique beacon and a distinguished Emirati legacy for humanity, elevating the nation and its institutions to the top position across all fields. His Highness's motto to achieve sustainable excellence has been upheld over the past fifty years, with the journey continuing to prosper in unparalleled achievements.' 'It is with a profound sense of gratitude that I accept the inaugural Life of Leadership Excellence Award in the civilian sector from the Sandhurst. This prestigious honour represents not only a personal milestone but also the highest aspirations of my beloved nation, the United Arab Emirates (UAE),' Al Tayer said. Al Tayer also spoke of the leadership values embedded within DEWA's organisational culture: 'At Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), we have embedded these noble values of leadership across all levels of the organisation. My personal approach, together with that of my team, has always been to serve as role models – championing integrity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.' Concluding his speech, Al Tayer emphasised the inspiration this recognition brings: 'On this momentous occasion, I reiterate my immense pride in receiving this prestigious award. I accept it both as an affirmation and an inspiration – a call to continue pushing boundaries and achieving even greater milestones in the energy and water sectors, for the betterment of our communities and our planet.' His Excellency Al Tayer extended his appreciation to all those who contributed to the award, including Vaughan Kent-Payne, Major General Paul Nanson, Colonel Mike Cooke MBE, Colonel Richard Westley OBE MC, and Craig Preston, CEO of the Ducis Leadership Institute. He expressed his deepest gratitude for receiving such a profound and unique recognition.
Sustainability Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'This Device Slashes Bills Instantly': Tech Giant Reveals Breakthrough Energy System That Could Cut Costs for 40 Million U.S. Homes
IN A NUTSHELL 🌿 Organic flow batteries offer a sustainable alternative to traditional lithium-ion solutions, reducing environmental impact. offer a sustainable alternative to traditional lithium-ion solutions, reducing environmental impact. 💡 The technology uses durable organic molecules, maintaining nearly 100% electrochemical efficiency with a projected lifespan of two decades. 🔋 By providing reliable energy storage, these batteries can support renewable sources like solar and wind, ensuring a steady electricity supply. ⚙️ XL Batteries is seeking partnerships to commercialize their innovation, with Texas identified as a prime location for grid-level storage demonstrations. In a world striving for sustainable energy solutions, a breakthrough in energy storage could redefine how we power our lives. A startup in Marlborough, Massachusetts, has unveiled an innovative organic flow battery poised to compete with traditional lithium-ion solutions for grid-level storage. This development promises to revolutionize the way we store renewable energy, offering a potentially lower-cost, scalable, and efficient alternative. As temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, driven by fossil fuel emissions, such technological advancements are not just timely but essential for a sustainable future. The Rise of Organic Flow Batteries The concept of flow batteries, though not new, has historically been held back by limitations such as high costs and corrosive materials. However, the startup XL Batteries has introduced a game-changing solution by utilizing organic materials that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Unlike their predecessors that relied on expensive and corrosive components, these new batteries use durable organic molecules capable of holding a charge without degrading quickly. This advancement not only minimizes the environmental impact but also opens the door for more extensive deployment in stationary applications, where size and weight are less of a constraint. Tom Sisto, co-founder of XL Batteries, highlighted the compelling economics of their design. By using molecules stabilized in pH-neutral water, XL Batteries has created a system that maintains nearly 100% electrochemical efficiency. The result is a safe, scalable product with a projected lifespan of two decades, capable of powering tens of thousands of homes when scaled appropriately. This innovation is a critical step towards reducing dependence on fossil fuels and minimizing the carbon footprint of energy storage. 'This Solar Ship Is the Future of River Travel,' Declares Visionary Engineer as 192 Sun-Powered Panels Drive the World's First Inland Marvel Transforming Energy Storage for a Sustainable Future Flow batteries are engineered with a unique setup that includes a network of pipes, fluid holding tanks, and pumps. These components work in unison to transfer liquid past a membrane, converting chemical energy into electrical energy. This design allows for high power and long-duration energy storage, addressing one of the significant challenges of renewable energy sources: their intermittency. By providing a reliable method to store excess energy generated by solar and wind power, flow batteries can ensure a steady supply of electricity, even when natural conditions are not optimal. The importance of storing renewable energy cannot be overstated. As traditional lithium-ion batteries, like Tesla's Megapacks, rely on expensive materials sourced from international markets, the need for a more sustainable and cost-effective solution is evident. XL Batteries' organic flow battery offers a promising alternative, reducing reliance on foreign resources and promoting energy independence. This shift is crucial for supporting a greener grid and ensuring energy security in the face of increasing demand and climate challenges. 'These Unbelievable Clay Membranes Are Pulling Lithium Fortunes Out of Thin Water,' Roars Shocked Scientist as Global Battery Race Goes Into Overdrive Challenges and Opportunities in Commercialization Despite the promising attributes of organic flow batteries, there are hurdles to overcome before widespread adoption can occur. One of the primary challenges is the system's bulkiness, which limits its application to stationary uses. However, the potential for grid-level storage is immense, as these batteries can be housed in shipping containers, allowing for modular expansions based on energy needs. XL Batteries is actively seeking partnerships with power producers to demonstrate their technology's capabilities, with Texas identified as a prime location for such initiatives. The development of organic flow batteries aligns with government efforts to improve energy storage technologies. Research at institutions like Concordia University in Montréal focuses on reducing the size and enhancing the efficiency of these systems. As the commercial design nears completion, XL Batteries is poised to make a significant impact on the energy landscape. By providing a sustainable solution for storing renewable energy, this innovation holds the potential to revolutionize how we power our world. Buried Reactors, Silent Power: Deep Fission's Radical Nuclear Plan Could Revolutionize How the World Feeds Its Data Machines The Future of Clean Energy Storage As we look towards a future where clean energy is the norm, innovations in storage technology will play a pivotal role in achieving sustainability goals. XL Batteries' organic flow battery represents a significant leap forward, offering a practical solution to some of the most pressing challenges in energy storage. By reducing air pollution and enhancing grid reliability, this technology could drastically alter the energy landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the need for efficient and scalable energy storage solutions becomes increasingly urgent. How will innovations like organic flow batteries transform our approach to energy and sustainability in the coming decades? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.3/5 (23)
The Star
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Rural Alaskan village turns to clean energy to save money
Eric Huntington built his dream cabin nestled in the wilderness of central Alaska, eventually raising two daughters there. But over the years, he learned that living in this quiet, remote village came with a hefty cost. Every year, the Huntington family spent about US$7,000 (RM30,000) on diesel to heat the cabin during bone-chilling winters, and a few years back, a power outage at the town's diesel plant left residents freezing in minus 50°F (about minus 45°C). When power finally returned hours later, water pipes had frozen, leaving about two dozen homes without running water for days. 'We just didn't open our door all morning until the lights came back on,' said Huntington, a member of the local Louden Tribe. Jake Pogrebinsky collects a log floating down the Yukon River to be used for firewood or construction. In Galena, a sprawling village of 400 people on the banks of the Yukon River, a community built around a former military base is shifting to clean energy in an effort to reduce its reliance on expensive, imported diesel. Local leaders say their nearly completed solar farm, along with an existing biomass plant, will boost the town's savings and protect residents from blackouts during extreme weather. The technology has the potential to provide clean backup power in emergencies and improve the power grid's resiliency, all while diversifying the village's energy sources and providing job opportunities for locals. The projects come at a precarious time for renewable energy transition in the United States. The Trump administration has cancelled billions of dollars of clean energy grants in an effort to bolster fossil fuel production, and billions more in investments have been scrapped or delayed this year. Kalke, general manager of Sustainable Energy for Galena, Alaska, watches as some of his workers split logs. So far, the village's federal grants for the solar array haven't been impacted, but local leaders know the risk remains. Whatever the future of public funding, the village is an example of how renewable energies can save costs, boost reliability during extreme weather and create jobs. Once online, the solar array will ensure that the village's power grid has a backup system, said Tim Kalke, general manager of Sustainable Energy for Galena Alaska – or Sega – a nonprofit that will operate it. So when the power goes out, it doesn't result in tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, he added, and heat is guaranteed in times of extreme cold. 'You're dealing with life, health and safety,' he said. Kalke, general manager of Sustainable Energy for Galena, Alaska, watches as some of his workers split logs. In May, dozens of high school students in navy blue caps and gowns stood with nervous excitement in a locker-brimmed hallway, each waiting their turn to walk through yellow tinsel into a packed auditorium. It was graduation day for Galena Interior Learning Academy. The school's vocational training courses and cultural offerings attract some 200 students annually from across Alaska, boosting the village's population and energy needs. Students here can take classes on sustainable energy, aviation, carpentry and much more. But in order to keep it running – especially during long, cold winters - it needs heat. Joe Cleaver II (left) and Derrick Esmailka build an energy-efficient home. That's where the biomass project comes in. Every winter since 2016, trees (mostly paper birch) are locally harvested and shredded into wood chips that fuel a large boiler plant on campus, offsetting about 100,000 gallons (about 380,000 litres) of diesel annually for the school district and the city, said Brad Scotton, a Galena City Council member who also serves on Sega's board. It's notable as one of the state's first large-scale biomass plants and is the most rural, he added. Cost savings from using biomass has allowed the Galena City School District to hire certified professionals in trade jobs and do upkeep on campus facilities, said district superintendent Jason R. Johnson in an email. It's also created a local workforce and a job base the village never used to have. 'It's keeping the money that used to go outside within the community and providing pretty meaningful jobs for people,' Scotton said. From left: Nathan Moses, Morris Demoski and Marissa McCarty deliver wood to an elder. In rural areas of Alaska, the costs for many goods can be high, as they must be brought in. Galena burns just under 400,000 gallons (1.5 million litres) of diesel annually to produce electricity, and an energy price hike around 2008 helped the village realise something needed to change. Scotton remembered when a gallon of diesel was US$1.64 (RM7) and then skyrocketed to US$4.58 (RM19.50) another year. At that wholesale price, the city was paying more than US$1.8mil (RM7.66mil) to keep the lights on. 'It was really quite a shock to everybody's system in terms of trying to operate with those elevated costs,' said Scotton. 'So that really got the community assessing whether or not we could continue business as usual with that reliance.' That's when they started looking for grants to build a solar array. Piles of logs harvested by Sustainable Energy for Galena, Alaska, sit out to dry to be used in a biomass heating system at the Galena Interior Learning Academy. On an overcast May day, on a field flanked by boreal forests, workers in reflective safety vests slotted rectangular panels on a metal grid. They were working on the nearly-completed, 1.5 megawatt solar farm that will connect to a battery system. Once in use, the community will be able to turn off its diesel engines and run on 100% clean, renewable energy on sunny summer days, and any excess power will be battery stored for nights, emergencies or heating the local indoor pool. The solar array will allow them to shut off the diesel operation between 800 to 1,000 hours a year, totalling about 100,000 gallons (about 380,000 litres). The solar farm won't necessarily lower people's electricity bills. But like the biomass plant, the hope is that it will stabilise energy costs, allowing those savings to go back into the community, all while providing work opportunities for residents like Aaren Sommer. Workers install panels at a solar project. Last year, the 19-year-old graduated from the academy, where he learned about solar energy. Now he's helping to install the solar array. 'That's going to reduce the diesel usage a whole bunch over at the power plant, which is going to help us out,' he said. In addition to the solar farm and biomass project, the Louden Tribe is building new energy-efficient homes that will help members be less reliant on diesel. Some of the siding used in the homes comes from wood harvested in the area. In November, the Huntington family moved into a new, stilted house with a solar-compatible roof, 13in (33cm) walls and 18in (46cm) of insulation to keep the cold at bay. When they lived in the cabin, the US$7,000 (RM30,000) a year Huntington spent on diesel was a good chunk of his annual income. The new home's energy-efficient features are already saving them money. The 300 gallon (1,130 litres) diesel tank Huntington filled before moving cost him about US$$2,400 (RM10,000) Six months later, he still has unused fuel in the tank. The Huntingtons are one of eight families the tribe has moved into sustainable homes, and they will turn over the keys to three more this year. Kalke, Sega's general manager, is often asked what Galena produces. He used to just say education. 'But since 2016 you can say education and wood chips. And soon, solar energy,' he said. – AP
The Star
27-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Green summit to rally stakeholders, industry leaders for climate action
(From left) Tan, Sundarajoo, Chow, Baderul Amin and Penang Green Summit organising chairman Datuk Lawrence Lim Hua Kwang, who is also PGC director, at the press conference. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star Penang is taking steps to lead regional action in addressing climate change and its economic and social impact. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that the state would host the Penang Green Summit 2025 from Oct 31 to Nov 1 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre. He said the event, themed 'Moving Towards Sustainable Energy', would merge purpose, partnership and policy in climate leadership, and energy transition. 'The Penang Green Summit 2025 is more than a continuation – it's an evolution. 'We are living in a time of climate emergency. We will not wait, we will step up,' he said during a press conference at Komtar. Chow, who is also Penang Green Council (PGC) chairman, pointed out that the hottest year ever recorded was 2024 when global temperatures reached 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. He said rising sea levels, floods, heatwaves and disruptions to food security were part of unpredictable weather. 'Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue but also an economic, social, and public health challenge. 'If we fail to act decisively, we risk the very well-being of our current and future generations,' he cautioned. Chow said PGC had since 2011 been pushing for public awareness, green certification, policy advocacy, and industry enablement. 'Last year, we launched the Penang Energy Framework for clean, secure and efficient energy, with a focus on renewables and energy efficiency,' he said. The upcoming summit will be the state's next step in terms of moving from the planning to implementation stages, he added. The two-day event will bring together decision-makers, industry leaders, academics, innovators and public sector players for dialogue, alignment and action. As part of the summit, the state government will also host a Green Gala Dinner to recognise leaders in sustainability. The dinner will also be a platform for industries to exchange ideas, forge partnerships and explore green solutions. PGC general manager Josephine Tan said the state was advancing its renewable energy agenda through action plans. 'Each programme is tied to clear sectoral objectives and all are progressing as planned. 'These initiatives underscore our dedication to building a low-carbon future,' she said, reaffirming Penang's continuous push towards sustainability. Also present during the press conference were Penang environment committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo and Seberang Perai mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid.
Independent Singapore
11-06-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Energy Asia 2025: Can the region's leaders deliver on net-zero promises?
KUALA LUMPUR: As countries all over Asia lay down climate-related strategies and clean energy initiatives, issues like international trade pressures and financing gaps continue to hamper development. Enter Energy Asia 2025 , a prestigious event intended to turn dialogue into action. According to a recent South China Morning Post (SCMP) report, Energy Asia 2025 is slated to take place on June 16 to 18 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The forum, hosted by Malaysia's national energy corporation Petronas, assembles leaders from government, industry, and finance. With the theme 'Delivering Asia's Energy Transition', it vows to provide joint solutions for sustainable energy conversion while aligning environmental objectives with economic advancement. Asia's energy conversion efforts are now in progress. Nations such as China and India have amplified renewable infrastructure at a record pace. China's non-fossil energy consumption has increased to 17.9% in 2023, while India is heading in the right direction, with solar contributing 30% of its power mix by 2040. Japan has focused on hydrogen, with approximately 25% of global hydrogen-related patent tenders between 2011 and 2020. See also China exports remain strong in October, import growth slows Meanwhile, Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) has delineated 10 major undertakings and an upcoming Climate Change Act to back decarbonisation. Thus far, even with these national-level ventures, regional development remains bumpy due to a lack of investment and scrappy policy agendas. Energy Asia 2025 aims to respond to these gaps by nurturing a comprehensive and impartial conversion strategy, particularly for developing economies in Southeast Asia. A huge difficulty in Asia's energy evolution is funding. The Asian Development Bank projects that the region needs US$210 billion per annum to meet climate-related goals. But, between 2015 and 2022, it only attracted US$8.1 billion annually in green investment, nowhere near what's adequate. In 2024, a Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue hosted by Energy Asia summoned 22 CEOs from different sectors to probe into possible solutions. One takeaway – although technologies like hydrogen and solar have potential, investors from the private sector are cautious of low revenues and regulatory uncertainties. See also Singapore explores nuclear power as part of clean energy push Energy Asia 2025 will open with an important speech from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, then a sequence of Leadership Dialogues will follow, including gatherings led by Petronas CEO Tengku Muhammad Taufik. Distinguished speakers include Andrea Della Mattea, president of Microsoft ASEAN; Muqsit Ashraf, group chief executive of Accenture Strategy; and Mansoor Mohamed Al Hamed, CEO of Mubadala Energy. As governments and businesses assemble in Kuala Lumpur, the objective is clear — build agreement, unlock capital, and fast-track Asia's clean energy conversion. With regional arrangements and more robust public-private partnerships, Asia may be able to reach its own net-zero goals while simultaneously leading the global energy transformation.
