Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi is set on an ambitious path to generate 60% of its electricity from clean, renewable sources by 2035, as announced by Dr. Abdulla Humaid Saif Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE). He emphasized that environmental sustainability is now a crucial aspect of comprehensive development and a key driver for building efficient, resilient, and sustainable economies.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Jarwan elaborated on the importance of tackling environmental challenges through an integrated approach. This involves enhancing resource efficiency and adopting advanced solutions and technologies to develop energy, water, and infrastructure systems that improve quality of life, preserve natural resources, and ensure their sustainability for future generations.
During a statement made on World Environment Day, Dr. Al Jarwan highlighted the intensifying global climate challenges and stressed the significance of resilient and sustainable energy and water systems for long-term environmental and economic stability. He pointed out that Abu Dhabi manages its energy and water sectors through an integrated framework grounded in effective governance and strategic planning, ensuring the delivery of reliable, efficient, and sustainable services.
Al Jarwan also noted Abu Dhabi's progress in reducing its carbon footprint, with total carbon dioxide emissions decreasing by 42.5 million metric tonnes compared to 2016. The emirate's plans to cut emissions intensity per megawatt-hour by 75% and increase electricity generation from clean and renewable sources to 60% by 2035 reflect its commitment to a low-emissions economy that aligns with the UAE's climate neutrality goals.
He further explained that the Demand Side Management and Energy Rationalisation Strategy (DSM 2030) aims to reduce electricity consumption by 22% and water consumption by 32% by 2030, equating to savings of around 19 terawatt-hours of electricity and 485 million cubic meters of water. These efforts represent a strategic model balancing economic growth with natural resource conservation.
Al Jarwan emphasized the critical role of innovation in advancing sustainability, noting that integrating artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced digital capabilities enhances system efficiency and operational resilience. These technologies ensure that Abu Dhabi's energy and water systems can adapt to evolving environmental and economic conditions, supporting the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and national sustainability priorities.
Engineer Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Under-Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, asserted that the UAE plays a leading role in supporting international climate change and sustainable development efforts. He stressed the need for global cooperation to reduce emissions and enhance energy efficiency, water security, and emission reductions.
Abdulaziz Mohamed Alhammadi, Director-General for Regulatory Affairs at the Department of Energy, highlighted the UAE's progress in leading a rapid global energy transition. By diversifying the energy mix through investments in peaceful nuclear and renewable energy and expanding solar power projects, Abu Dhabi strengthens energy security, reduces emissions, and reinforces its leadership in sustainability and low-carbon growth.