At the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE), in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), RAK Municipality, and RAK Public Services Department, announced a series of ambitious sustainability initiatives. These initiatives are designed to support the resolutions of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, aimed at enhancing sustainability throughout the emirate.

The initiatives form part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce consumption of electricity, water, and transportation fuel. Notably, the resolutions set significant targets, including a 30% reduction in electricity consumption and a 20% reduction in both water and fuel usage by 2030. In collaboration with its partners, EtihadWE has completed the replacement of about 42 kilometres of aging pipelines with newer technologies, including SmartBall and acoustic inspection tools.

To boost energy efficiency in Ras Al Khaimah, Etihad Water and Electricity Company has installed over 213,000 Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) smart meters for electricity and water. This installation allows for more accurate monitoring and management of resource use. Additionally, the initiative incorporates smart technologies to help consumers optimize their resource consumption, aligning with the emirate’s broader sustainability and technological advancement goals.

The expansion of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is also a key component of these initiatives. A joint initiative between MoEI and EtihadWE, announced earlier in 2024, includes plans to install over 120 fast chargers in Ras Al Khaimah within the next five years, with an eventual goal of approximately 1,000 chargers throughout various parts of the UAE by 2030.

Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, remarked that the directives from His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi demonstrate a shared commitment to a sustainable future. He noted that these initiatives support Ras Al Khaimah’s environmental goals, promote economic growth, enhance community well-being, and position the emirate as a leader in sustainable development.

Furthermore, investments announced as part of these initiatives include AED465 million for water network rehabilitation across the Northern Emirates, with AED214 million allocated specifically for network replacement in Ras Al Khaimah. More than AED180 million has already been invested in the smart meter project within the emirate, and provisions are in place for the installation of electric vehicle chargers in the coming years, highlighting the commitment to expanding EV infrastructure.

Mozah Al Nuaimi, Director of the Productivity and Demand Management Department at MoEI, stated that integrating sustainability is a key priority for the UAE. The initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah, he explained, will significantly reduce the emirate’s carbon footprint and align with the UAE’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050. As part of the National Water and Energy Demand Side Management Program, the Ministry aims for a 50% reduction in water demand and a 40% reduction in energy demand by 2050.

Andrea Di Gregorio, Executive Director of the Energy Efficiency and Renewables Office (Reem) in Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, emphasized the government’s renewed commitment to energy efficiency. He mentioned that Amiri Resolution no. 18 of 2024 establishes consumption reduction targets for 2030, including a 30% reduction in electricity, a 20% reduction in water, and a 20% reduction in transportation fuel. He expressed optimism in collaborating with EtihadWE to achieve these ambitious goals.

Raed Hills, Director of Strategy and Development at the Public Service Department, highlighted several strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing resource management and sustainability. These initiatives include deploying smart technologies for energy monitoring, implementing a comprehensive retrofit program for buildings, and launching a wide-ranging awareness campaign. He noted that these efforts have led to ISO 50001 certification, showcasing the department’s commitment to energy management and sustainability.

At the WFES, Etihad Water and Electricity showcased several innovative projects aligned with the conference theme. Highlights included the UAEV project, the Distributed Solar System initiative in collaboration with MoEI, the Naqa’a Desalination Plant with a capacity of producing 150 million gallons per day using high-efficiency reverse osmosis technology, and the Al Khuraijah Water Distribution Centre, which received the Sharjah Sustainability Award 2024.