Dubai's renewable energy initiative gains momentum

The use of photovoltaic (PV) panels to produce energy is growing around the world

Renewable energy tops the list of priorities at the forthcoming Wetex 2016 and Dubai Solar Show.

The Shams Dubai initiative will have a prominent place at the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (Wetex 2016), organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) from October 4 to 6 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

It also coincides with the inaugural edition of Dubai Solar Show which is a key platform for the solar energy sector. Both Wetex and Dubai Solar Show highlight the latest innovations and provide platforms to build partnerships among government and private sectors for sustainable energy solutions.

The use of photovoltaic (PV) panels to produce energy is growing around the world. Following the success of large utility scale projects, solar panels has permeated into models for individual homes and rooftops. It is now common for residential and commercial buildings to generate electricity from solar panels and transfer any surplus back to the electricity grid.

PV energy systems use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electrical energy. A range of factors influence the performance and benefits of a solar PV system, including the direction of the building, the level of shade and surface as well as the type and size of equipment used.

Preferred source
Countries tend to adopt renewable energy sources which are most abundant based on their geographical characteristics. Solar technologies are a preferred source of energy in the Middle East as the region is located in the Sunbelt, which has a high level of solar radiation. The UAE is preparing for a future without oil, and is therefore focusing on solar energy for energy security and sustainability.

"We recognise the importance of renewable and sustainable energy in preserving the environment and to achieve sustainability of our natural resources, thus ensuring a better future for generations to come. Therefore, we launched the Shams Dubai initiative as part of our efforts to achieve the Smart Dubai initiative which aims to make Dubai the happiest and smartest city in the world," said Saeed Mohamed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of Dewa.

"Solar energy is a renewable form of energy that is clean, safe, unlimited and does not cause carbon emissions, and is therefore sustainable for our environment. It also reduces our dependence on conventional energy such as gas, oil and coal," Al Tayer added.
The launch of Shams Dubai initiative has created a significant momentum in the solar industry in Dubai. More than 40 companies are currently enrolled with Dewa as consultants or contractors for Shams Dubai.

- abdulbasit@khaleejtimes.com