DEWA's Mega Projects: From Solar-Powered Desalination to World's Largest Desalination Facility
The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is putting efforts to secure and sustain water resources in line with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically the 6th Goal focusing on water and sanitation. In response to Dubai's economic growth, population surge, and rising water demand, DEWA is strategically investing in Sea Water Reverse Osmosis technology for water production, aiming to achieve 100 percent desalinated water production using clean energy and waste heat by 2030.
Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DEWA is aligning with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. By embracing technologies and innovative solutions, DEWA is committed to ensuring the sustainability of water resources, as outlined in the Dubai Integrated Water Resource Management Strategy 2030.
CEO of DEWA, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, emphasised the three pillars guiding their sustainability approach: utilising clean solar power for desalination through Reverse Osmosis, storing excess water in aquifers for efficient distribution, and adopting an integrated model that balances environmental protection with economic sustainability.
DEWA has not only reduced water network losses to an impressive 4.5 percent in 2022 but is also actively expanding water reservoir projects. With ongoing efforts in Lusaily, and upcoming projects in Nakhali, Hassyan, and Hatta, the storage capacity is set to increase to 1,152 Million Imperial Gallons of desalinated water.
DEWA is making global headlines with its projects, including the Hassyan desalination project – the world's largest solar energy-powered desalination plant based on Sea Water Reverse Osmosis technology. Costing AED 3.357 billion, this Independent Water Producer model project will reach a capacity of 670 MIGD by 2027.
Furthermore, DEWA's Jebel Ali Power and Desalination Complex stands as the largest single-site water desalination facility globally, boasting a production capacity of 490 MIGD.
In the realm of technological advancements, DEWA launched the third phase of its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Centre in 2023, employing real-time hydraulic modelling and over 10,000 smart devices to monitor Dubai's extensive water network. The Smart Grid Strategy, backed by an investment of AED 7 billion, leverages AI, drones, blockchain, and IoT to ensure seamless, round-the-clock services, with a focus on Foundational Capabilities, Grid Automation, Smart Energy Solutions, Green Mobility, Smart Water, Smart Grid Artificial Intelligence, and Innovative Value-Added Services.
The deployment of smart meters, a cornerstone of DEWA's digital transformation, contributes to operational efficiency and loss reduction. All traditional meters for electricity and water have been converted to smart meters, allowing customers proactive control over their consumption.
DEWA continues to lead in innovation with initiatives like the Automatic Smart Grid Restoration System, the first of its kind in the MENA region, and the Big Data and Analytics platform launched in 2022. The 'High-Water Usage Alert' service, supported by the smart grid, proactively detects leaks in water connections, providing instant notifications to customers for quick repairs and maintenance, contributing to water conservation efforts.
In summary, DEWA's multifaceted approach, from sustainable water production to cutting-edge technology adoption, positions Dubai as a global leader in water resource management and sets a precedent for smart, efficient, and sustainable city development.
