DEWA’s Clean Energy Storage Boosts Dubai’s Energy Security
Several of DEWA's Energy Storage Projects Among the Largest
The global shift towards clean and renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, is gaining momentum due to their cost-effectiveness and the imperative to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, efficient energy storage becomes crucial to ensure a reliable power supply during periods of low sunlight or varying weather conditions. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has emerged as a pioneer in adopting cutting-edge energy storage technologies, with several of its projects ranking among the largest globally.
DEWA’s commitment to energy storage aligns with the global push for sustainable practices and its emphasis on reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, underscores the significance of energy storage in achieving sustainability and increasing dependence on clean and renewable energy sources. DEWA has not only completed notable energy storage projects but also has plans for a comprehensive energy storage system using electric batteries at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.
One of DEWA’s groundbreaking projects is the 950MW fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, inaugurated in December 2023 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This solar park, the largest single-site solar park globally, incorporates three hybrid technologies—600MW from a parabolic basin complex, 100MW from a solar power tower, and 250MW from photovoltaic solar panels. The project’s innovative approach includes the use of molten salt for thermal energy storage, contributing to continuous electricity production round the clock.
DEWA is also making strides in pumped-storage hydroelectric power with a plant in Hatta. Leveraging water from the Hatta Dam and an upper reservoir, this hydroelectric station uses clean energy generated at the solar park to pump water from the dam to the upper reservoir during off-peak hours. The process involves converting kinetic energy from water flow through a subterranean tunnel into electrical energy, achieving high efficiency in power generation and storage.
Furthermore, DEWA has ventured into green hydrogen production at the solar park, demonstrating its commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions. The pilot green hydrogen project produces approximately 400kg of hydrogen daily using solar energy, with future applications anticipated for various hydrogen uses.
Collaborating with ENOC Group, DEWA opened the region’s first green hydrogen station at Expo City Dubai. This station uses green hydrogen produced at DEWA’s pilot plant, emphasizing the practical applications of sustainable energy storage solutions in transportation.
DEWA is actively engaged in research and development for advanced battery energy storage systems. The R&D center has filed a patent for an inventive method to enhance the performance of electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, sodium–sulphur batteries, and electrolyte distribution batteries. This low-cost and environmentally friendly method aims to increase electrode performance, promoting stable battery performance. DEWA’s pilot project at the solar park, utilizing Tesla’s lithium-ion battery solution, showcases its commitment to exploring diverse energy storage technologies.
In summary, DEWA’s initiatives underscore Dubai’s commitment to sustainable development, innovation, and achieving clean energy goals. By investing in and implementing cutting-edge energy storage technologies, DEWA is playing a pivotal role in shaping a green and secure energy future for the region and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
