DSCE Organises Workshop to Promote Energy Efficiency in Dubai

The Supreme Council of Energy for Dubai has organised a workshop at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), attended by over 30 representatives of government and semi-government departments, and the private sector. The workshop aimed at promoting and increasing awareness of all government departments in Dubai on energy efficiency and the optimal use of natural resources. The workshop was organised in the presence of HE Ahmed Butti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Energy for Dubai, HE Ali Bin Abdullah Al Owais, Chairman of the Regulatory and Supervisory Bureau for Electricity and Water, and Hassan Al Hashemi, Director, External Relations Department, DCCI. The initiative is part of Supreme Council’s strategy to achieve a reduction in energy demand by applying international specifications and standards of green buildings, reducing the consumption of energy resources at government departments, and promoting best practices. The participants presented an overview of the standards and specifications of green building at the workshop. The event also presented details of electricity and water consumption by government departments and a roadmap setting the strategic direction for reducing the demand of energy. “In line with the ‘Green Economy for Sustainable Development’ initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Supreme Council has established a series of workshops to introduce the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, which aims to reduce energy demand by 30% in 2030.,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy for Dubai. “The increase in awareness and behavior change on the consumption of energy is very important to achieve lower energy consumption, which in turn leads to reduced carbon emissions. In Dubai we are looking forward to lead by example at all levels in terms of rationalizing the use of electricity and water,” said Al Tayer. “The private sector’s involvement in this initiative is crucial. Representatives from Al Futtaim Group presented their initiatives to lower consumption. The participation of the private sector is also important, with representatives of Al Futtaim Group having introduced their green initiatives to strengthen power conservation,” said Al Muhairbi The participants took part in a tour of the DCCI building to learn about the Chamber’s experience in optimal use of energy- and water-related initiatives. “This culture of green building represents our clear commitment and responsibility to protect the environment and instill this concept and its practices in the working environment around us. Dubai Chamber believes in this concept, which has led to tangible initiatives and developments of the green model for the environment. This will be a model on which companies will base their efforts to implement environmental sustainability,” said HE Hamad Buamim, Director General of the DCCI. Al Hashemi said that the Chamber has adopted many simple initiatives like turning off lights and air conditioners after working hours in addition to making use of light and water sensors, reduction of lift loads and raising employee awareness about reduced use of water and energy. “We also make use of condensate water from air-conditioning for use in the water fountain area, reuse grey water for landscaping and toilet systems, and provide VIP parking for staff and free valet parking for visitors using fuel efficient vehicles. From 1998 to 2011 we have saved almost AED 15.9 million achieving a reduction in energy and water consumption of 59% and 83% per person respectively,” concluded Al Hashemi. “I hope that all government departments will implement the recommendations of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to create a society based on Excellence and responsibility to society and the environment. This is because these are prerequisites for sustainable development,” said Al Hashemi. At the end of the workshop, Al Muhairbi thanked the DCCI for its cooperation with the Supreme Council.