Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) plans to implement a $1.9 billion smart grid initiative by 2035 that will leverage the latest technologies in water production, transmission, distribution, and the control of water networks. This initiative is part of DEWA’s strategy to establish itself as one of the best utilities in the world while contributing to the UAE’s vision of transforming Dubai into the smartest and happiest city. With the integration of AI and IoT, the smart grid will ensure 24/7 reliable, efficient, and sustainable operations.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, emphasized that the smart grid initiative is in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum to build advanced infrastructure for Dubai. DEWA’s investments in the smart grid, amounting to around AED 7 billion, have markedly improved the reliability, sustainability, and quality of electricity and water services. This dedication has led DEWA to outperform European and American companies in efficiency, reducing electricity transmission and distribution network losses to 2% and water network losses to 4.6%.
Initially developed in 2014 and updated in 2021, the smart grid strategy now includes six key themes to address emerging opportunities and align with DEWA’s strategic goals. One of the standout programs is the Automatic Smart Grid Restoration System (ASGR), which improves power network control and management. ASGR is capable of autonomously locating faults, isolating them, and restoring services without human intervention, marking a significant advancement in utility technology.
In 2022, DEWA unveiled a Big Data and Analytics platform designed to integrate smart grid applications and operational technologies. This platform processes large volumes of data to enhance asset management and improve customer experience. Another significant feature is the ‘High-Water Usage Alert’ service, which detects water leaks and alerts customers. This service, introduced in 2019, has identified over 1.8 million water leaks, 36,005 defects, and 13,397 cases of increased load, allowing for swift repairs and minimizing water losses.
This initiative by DEWA underscores a broader trend of incorporating advanced technologies into utility services to boost efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. The smart grid program reflects a strategic alignment with global best practices and a proactive stance on sustainable infrastructure development. DEWA’s comprehensive strategy showcases a strong commitment to making Dubai a leader in smart city initiatives, maintaining high service standards, and achieving operational excellence.
DEWA’s efforts to modernize and improve its infrastructure have set a benchmark in the global utility sector. By continually updating its smart grid strategy and incorporating innovative technologies, DEWA aims to provide state-of-the-art services to its customers while ensuring environmental sustainability. With the planned completion in 2035, DEWA envisions a future where Dubai stands as a beacon of technological advancement and urban satisfaction.