- Emirates has partnered with Etihad Clean Energy Development to launch a solar energy project at the Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai. The project, featuring 39,960 solar panels, is expected to supply 37% of the facility’s annual energy needs.
- The initiative aims to reduce CO2 emissions by over 13,000 tonnes per year significantly and supports the UAE’s sustainability agenda for a low-carbon future.
In a significant step towards enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability, Emirates has teamed up with Etihad Clean Energy Development to launch a major solar energy project at the Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai.
The partnership was officially announced at the World Green Economy Summit 2024, attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Emirates Airline and Group, along with His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
The initiative involves developing, engineering, procurement, construction, testing, and commissioning solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at the Emirates Engineering Centre, alongside 20 years of operation and maintenance services.
The project will install 39,960 solar panels, which, once fully operational, are expected to supply 37% of the facility’s annual energy needs and cut CO2 equivalent emissions by over 13,000 tonnes annually. With a total capacity of 23,177 kW, solar installation is estimated to generate approximately 34,301,960 kWh annually.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “This project reflects Emirates’ dedication to investing in renewable energy solutions as part of our sustainability strategy.
By integrating solar energy into the Emirates Engineering Centre, we are making substantial strides in our sustainability journey, and we are excited to collaborate with Etihad Clean Energy Development to expand our solar installations.”
HE Saeed Al Tayer highlighted Etihad Clean Energy Development’s role as a leader in energy efficiency solutions, stating, “This partnership will showcase our expertise in delivering high-performance energy systems.
Together with Emirates Airlines, we aim to ensure the long-term efficiency of solar PV systems while achieving significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy costs. This landmark project supports the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future and sets a strong example for renewable energy adoption within the aviation sector.”
The solar PV systems, backed by a 20-year operation and maintenance agreement, will provide lasting environmental benefits, allowing the Emirates Engineering Centre to operate sustainably with clean energy. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by both companies to support the UAE’s sustainability agenda, which aims to decrease reliance on non-renewable energy and advance towards a low-carbon future.
Emirates has previously installed solar panels at other facilities in Dubai, including the Emirates Flight Catering facility and The Sevens Stadium, which features the region’s first and largest solar carport at a sporting venue.