DUBAI: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, (Dewa) has approved a total budget of Dhs26.417 billion for 2018, compared to Dhs24.358 billion in 2017.

The 2018 budget incorporates investments in conventional and non-conventional energy sources, advanced technologies and innovative projects to realise the vision of the Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to make Dubai a smart, sustainable and innovative city, and consolidate its position as a global model for green economy.

Dewa recognises the vital role of renewable and clean energy sources in realising the objectives of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 to provide 75 percent of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2050.

Dewa has also announced the preferred bidder for its 700 MW concentrated solar power Independent Power Producer, IPP, model project costing Dhs14.2 billion.

Dewa’s vision is aligned with strategies at both federal and local levels as stipulated in UAE Vision 2021, National Agenda, UAE Centennial 2071, Dubai Plan 2021, and Smart Dubai goals. Accordingly, budget allocations have been made in 2018 for investment in strategic innovation, research and development (R&D), renewable energy, green technology, smart grid, energy efficiency, demand side management and other projects.

“We have a holistic approach for the energy sector and we translated that into workable strategies. The budget supports the vision of our leadership to provide citizens and residents with excellent services in a smart and well-connected city, which is recognised as a world model for developing clean energy, inspiring innovation and creativity and promoting sustainability.