The DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre, a flagship initiative of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), recently welcomed an official delegation from Hong Kong Metropolitan University. The visit aimed to explore Dubai’s world-leading renewable energy projects, groundbreaking clean energy innovations, and ambitious net-zero strategies that are driving the UAE’s energy transition.
A Global Hub for Clean Energy and Net Zero Leadership
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, emphasized that the DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre stands as a global beacon of innovation, research, and strategic collaboration in renewable and clean energy.
“The centre plays a pivotal role in making Dubai a global hub for clean energy and the green economy by encouraging business, investing in the latest clean and renewable energy innovations, and concluding strategic partnerships with leading universities, institutions and start-ups,” said Al Tayer.
He underlined that DEWA’s initiatives align with both the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim to provide 100% of the emirate’s energy production capacity from clean sources by 2050.
Showcasing Landmark Projects at DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre
Dr Aaesha Alnuaimi, Director of the DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre, guided the Hong Kong delegation through a comprehensive overview of DEWA’s flagship clean energy projects.
1. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
The centrepiece of DEWA’s renewable energy strategy, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, is the world’s largest single-site solar park, with a planned capacity of 5,000 megawatts (MW) upon completion. Developed under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, it sets new benchmarks for clean energy production using photovoltaic solar panels and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies.
2. Green Hydrogen Project
The visiting delegation was briefed on DEWA’s Green Hydrogen project, the first initiative of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Located at the Solar Park, it produces green hydrogen using solar energy through electrolysis — a milestone achievement that supports the UAE’s hydrogen economy and positions Dubai as a regional leader in hydrogen technology.
3. EV Green Charger Initiative
DEWA’s EV Green Charger initiative was also highlighted. Launched in 2015, it introduced the UAE’s first public electric vehicle charging infrastructure. As of 2025, the initiative includes over 360 charging stations across Dubai, significantly supporting the emirate’s transition to sustainable mobility.
Interactive Exhibition and Innovation Showcase
During the tour of the DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre’s exhibition area, the Hong Kong delegation engaged with over 30 interactive displays. These showcased key historical inventions in electricity, emerging trends in renewable energy, and innovative sustainable solutions.
Exhibits included:
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Smart Grid technologies
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Energy storage solutions
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Water desalination innovations using renewable energy
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Artificial Intelligence in energy management
Fostering Global Academic-Industry Collaboration
The Hong Kong Metropolitan University delegation commended the DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre for its forward-thinking role in fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
“The Centre stands as a model of how innovation ecosystems can accelerate the global energy transition and deliver sustainable resource development,” said the head of the Hong Kong delegation.
The visit also included discussions on potential future partnerships between DEWA and Hong Kong-based research institutions in areas such as green hydrogen research, solar PV advancements, and AI-driven smart grids.
DEWA’s Commitment to Innovation and Sustainable Development
DEWA’s Sustainability and Innovation Centre continues to:
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Support research and development
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Host workshops, seminars, and innovation labs
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Incubate clean energy start-ups
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Facilitate knowledge exchange globally
The centre directly contributes to several national strategies:
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UAE Energy Strategy 2050
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Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030
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UAE Hydrogen Leadership Roadmap
Strategic Impact on Dubai’s Energy Future
DEWA’s clean energy projects are already showing tangible results:
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14.66% of Dubai’s total energy mix currently comes from clean sources (as of Q1 2025)
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By 2030, clean energy will constitute 25% of Dubai’s total energy mix
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Over 2.3 million tons of CO₂ emissions were avoided in 2024 due to DEWA’s renewable projects
Conclusion: Strengthening Global Green Energy Alliances
The successful visit of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University delegation to the DEWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre highlights Dubai’s commitment to international collaboration, technological innovation, and sustainable development.
As Dubai progresses towards its 2050 clean energy and net-zero goals, the DEWA Centre will continue to serve as a catalyst for pioneering projects that shape the future of energy in the UAE and beyond.
For more information on DEWA’s clean energy projects and sustainability initiatives, visit DEWA’s Official Website.
