The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy and Khalifa University of Science and Technology have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve collaboration in research, development, and innovation within the water and energy sectors. This agreement was formalized during the “World Utilities Congress 2025,” taking place at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, which will continue through May 29.

The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Abdullah Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy. The MoU was signed by H.E. Eng. Ahmed Mohamed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Energy, and H.E. Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, along with various officials and experts from both organizations.

This strategic partnership underscores Abu Dhabi’s dedication to accelerating the transition to a sustainable future. It aims to develop innovative solutions that improve the efficiency of essential resource use and help build a more resilient system in response to climate change and the increasing demand for water and energy.

H.E. Eng. Ahmed Mohamed Al Rumaithi remarked that the agreement exemplifies an innovative model of collaboration between government agencies and national academic institutions. He stated that it aligns with efforts to enhance water and energy security in the emirate through integrated strategies that emphasize efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.

He further indicated that this collaboration represents a significant step toward utilizing academic expertise to create effective solutions that improve resource management efficiency, support sustainable development goals, and enhance the quality of life in the emirate.

H.E. Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed honor in signing the MoU, noting that it aligns with the university’s strategy to play a crucial role in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the university’s commitment to supporting economic growth and government sustainability priorities, especially in the energy sector.

The areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include the integration of academic, industrial, and government entities to create sustainable policies and technologies in energy and water. The partnership will also investigate new possibilities in sustainable energy generation, storage, and the incorporation of renewable sources into smart grids, as well as enhancing demand-side energy and water efficiency.

The agreement aims to support the advancement of technologies that tackle challenges in efficient and economical energy generation, including waste-to-energy solutions and methods to lower CO₂ emissions from gas-fired power plants. It also encompasses the design of energy models and methodologies, alongside providing technical and economic analyses to assist decision-makers in forming more informed and effective policies.

Cooperation will extend to ambitious projects in hydrogen, biofuel, and alternative fuels, with a focus on developing carbon-neutral hydrogen production technologies, as well as its storage, transport, and use in electricity generation and various industries.

Additionally, environmentally friendly technological solutions for cooling systems will be explored, including low global warming potential refrigerants. The parties will also assess the current and future state of the renewable energy sector in the emirate and work together to formulate future energy policies that align with global and regional developments, improving the overall regulatory framework for energy.

The collaboration includes a joint research initiative to develop 3D-printed graphene-enhanced materials to improve water quality, showcasing innovation and modern technology in addressing environmental challenges. Joint initiatives will further promote knowledge exchange, organize scientific conferences and workshops, offer academic training and student exchange opportunities, and align Khalifa University’s Virtual Research Institute activities with the Department of Energy’s research priorities.

This initiative represents a shared commitment to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s vision for a more sustainable and efficient management of its vital resources.