Emirates Engineering Centre Goes Green with Clean Energy Investment

Emirates has partnered with Etihad Clean Energy Development to launch a large-scale solar energy project at the Emirates Engineering Centre in Dubai, as part of an effort to improve energy efficiency and sustainability. The signing ceremony took place at the World Green Economy Summit 2024 in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). The project includes developing, engineering, procurement, construction, testing, and commissioning solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at Emirates Engineering Centre and 20 years of operation and maintenance services.

A total of 39,960 solar panels will be installed, providing 37% of the facility's annual energy consumption. This will reduce CO2 equivalent emissions by over 13,000 tonnes each year when fully operational. The total capacity is 23,177 kWp, with an estimated annual generation of 34,301,960 kWh.

STATEMENTS

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “This initiative highlights Emirates’ commitment and continued investment in renewable energy solutions as part of our sustainability strategy. Integrating solar energy into the Emirates Engineering Centre significantly reduces our carbon footprint while supporting the UAE's clean energy goals. We are pleased to partner with Etihad Clean Energy Development in this solar PV project, which adds another milestone in our sustainability journey and greatly expands the number of solar installations at our facilities.”

HE Saeed Al Mohammed Tayer said: “Etihad Clean Energy Development, a leading provider of energy efficiency solutions in the region, will spearhead the project, showcasing its expertise in delivering high-performance energy systems. Through this partnership, Etihad Clean Energy Development and Emirates Airlines will ensure the long-term operational efficiency of the solar PV systems while achieving substantial reductions in carbon emissions and energy costs. We are proud to collaborate with Emirates Airlines on this landmark project. Our partnership supports the UAE's vision for a sustainable future and sets a precedent for renewable energy adoption in the aviation sector."

The solar PV systems will be under a 20-year operation and maintenance agreement. They will help the Emirates Engineering Centre operate efficiently using clean energy, leading to long-term environmental benefits. This project is part of both companies’ efforts to support the UAE’s sustainability agenda, aiming to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources and move towards a low-carbon future. Other Emirates-owned and managed facilities in Dubai with solar panel installations include the Emirates Flight Catering facility and The Sevens Stadium, which features the region’s first and largest solar carport at a sporting facility.