Etihad Energy Services Company (Etihad ESCO), a subsidiary of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has announced the successful completion of Dubai’s first Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC), marking a major milestone in the city’s sustainability drive.
The retrofit project, launched in 2015 and completed in 2024, aimed at enhancing energy efficiency across multiple DEWA buildings. The initiative aligns with Dubai’s Demand Side Management Strategy 2050 and contributes to the emirate’s goal of becoming a global leader in smart and green urban development.
According to Etihad ESCO, the project involved a comprehensive upgrade of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, water, and insulation systems at DEWA’s headquarters and several key facilities, including Al Hudaiba, Umm Ramool, Al Wasl, and Burj Nahar. Administrative buildings at the G and L power stations were also included in the initiative.
A significant component of the project was the installation of advanced chillers with a magnetic bearing system at DEWA’s headquarters, aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Over the six-year period, the initiative resulted in substantial savings, including approximately 35.2 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity and 2.8 million imperial gallons of water. Additionally, the project contributed to a reduction of nearly 14,452 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, emphasized the project’s impact on sustainability efforts in Dubai. “This achievement underscores our commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming one of the most sustainable cities globally. Through such pioneering initiatives, we not only enhance energy efficiency but also generate long-term financial and environmental benefits,” he stated.
The success of the project extends beyond cost savings, with improvements in smart infrastructure and operational performance standards further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a hub for innovation and energy efficiency.
