Etihad Esco, the leading energy management services provider established by Dewa, said one of its units will be implementing the largest rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) project in the region.

Under this project, Etihad Solar will design and install the most comprehensive energy-efficiency solutions and rooftop solar PV panels for 640 villas in Hatta area of Dubai.

Once the project gets completed, these rooftop solar PVs will be connected to Dewa’s main grid through the Shams Dubai programme, which will save cost for residents living in these villas.

These housing units are being developed under the Dh1.3 billion ($354 million) Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan, which was launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said a statement from the company.  

The Development Plan is aimed at boosting the area’s social and economic attractiveness as a world-class environmental tourist destination. It covers three key areas including the economic and service sector, tourism and sports, and culture and education.

"We are pleased to support the leadership’s vision to transform Dubai into one of the most sustainable cities in the world.  For Hatta, it will be the largest rooftop solar PV project in the region, and will be implemented by Etihad Solar. This will be one of the first projects undertaken by Etihad Solar," remarked Ali Al Jassim, the chief executive of Etihad Esco.

Etihad Solar is a dedicated division under Etihad Esco established to distribute innovative solar power generation solutions across the energy sector in the UAE.

"Under this landmark tender, we will be installing rooftop solar PVs at villas in Hatta, and provide maintenance services for two years thereafter. Besides these, we will also look into providing solutions for reducing water consumption," he noted.

Al Jassim said: "We always look forward to adopting the best electricity and water technologies and promoting partnerships with the private sector to achieve the goals under Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to reach clean energy supply targets of 25 per cent by 2030, and 75 per cent by 2050."

"All the ambitious strategies by the leadership aim to improve the economy and attract investment into projects that provide opportunities for ESCOs in the region," he added.-TradeArabia News Service