Emirates and Etihad Clean Energy Development Launch Solar PV Project to Power Engineering Centre
Emirates has taken a major step towards sustainability with the announcement of a large-scale solar energy project in partnership with Etihad Clean Energy Development.
The initiative, aimed at powering the Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai, was unveiled at the World Green Economy Summit 2024. The project will see 37% of the Centre’s energy needs being met by solar power, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
The partnership was formalized in the presence of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
The project involves the installation of 39,960 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels with a capacity of 23,177 kWp, generating an estimated 34.3 million kWh annually. This will result in a reduction of over 13,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum commented: “This initiative underscores our commitment to renewable energy and aligns with the UAE’s clean energy goals. It marks a significant milestone in Emirates’ sustainability journey, as we continue to invest in innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint.”
Etihad Clean Energy Development will manage the project from development through to long-term operation and maintenance, with a 20-year agreement in place. The initiative contributes to the UAE’s vision of advancing towards a low-carbon future, setting a precedent for the adoption of clean energy within the aviation sector.
Emirates has already incorporated solar installations at other facilities in Dubai, including the Emirates Flight Catering facility and The Sevens Stadium, further supporting the country’s sustainability agenda.
