Dubai's Smart Grid: Energy Efficiency Revolution
Dubai, one of the most dynamically developing cities in the United Arab Emirates, has been at the center of attention in recent years due to numerous innovative initiatives. The smart grid implemented by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is not just a technological advancement but also a key step towards Dubai's goal of becoming the world's smartest and happiest city.
DEWA has invested a total of 7 billion dirhams (approximately 1.9 billion dollars) in the development of smart grid infrastructure, which provides integrated services 24/7. The smart grid offers advanced features, including automated decision-making and the interoperability of electric and water networks. Using Industry 4.0 technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), the smart grid ensures efficient, reliable, and sustainable operation.
Dubai's leaders' vision for a smart city
The development of the smart grid aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, as well as His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. Dubai is continuously building modern infrastructures to support its aspirations of becoming a smart city.
The smart grid significantly contributes to electric and water services operating with the highest availability, reliability, and quality. DEWA has already achieved competitive results that surpass the performance of leading European and American companies:
a, Electric grid loss: Only 2%, compared to the European and American average of 6-7%.
b, Water network loss: 4.6%, while in North America, this figure is around 15%.
c, Loss measured in customer minutes: Dubai annually loses an average of 1.06 minutes per customer, compared to the EU's average of 15 minutes.
Strategic development of the smart grid
In 2014, DEWA developed its first smart grid strategy, which was updated in 2021 and extended until 2035. The new strategy is based on six key themes that flexibly adapt to new opportunities and demands. The smart grid includes a total of 19 globally leading solutions, all aligned with DEWA's strategic goals.
Automated Recovery System
Among the smart grid's programs is the Automated Recovery System, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. This system operates without human intervention, using innovative central technologies to identify and isolate faults and then automatically restore services. This increases the network's automation and improves fault detection and service restoration.
Big Data Analytics
In 2022, DEWA launched its Big Data and Analytic platform, which allows the integration of smart grid applications and operational technologies. This platform enables the processing of massive amounts of data, providing accurate analyses and forecasts for future projects. The platform further enhances the operation of assets and smart meters, thereby increasing stakeholder satisfaction.
High Consumption Alert System
Supported by the smart grid, the High Consumption Alert Service detects water pipe leaks in the sections beyond the meters. The smart metering system sends immediate notifications to consumers about abnormal consumption so that faults can be quickly rectified. Since its launch in 2019, the service has detected more than 1.8 million leaks, 36,000 faults, and 13,000 load increases.
A sustainable and happy future for Dubai
The smart grid clearly reflects Dubai's aspirations to create a sustainable and happy city. The technologies introduced by DEWA not only offer efficiency and reliability but also contribute to minimizing energy and water losses. This development not only improves the quality of life for Dubai's residents but also sets an example for other cities worldwide in building smart infrastructures.
