DEWA marks World Energy Day as a reminder of the importance of energy conservation

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) organised a number of activities in conjunction with World Energy Day, endorsed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, along with representatives of 54 countries, in addition to the United Nations, Arab League and African Union Commission, who consented to make it a yearly event through the "Dubai Declaration - Energy for All" on 22 October 2012.

Every year, World Energy Day stands as a reminder of the importance of energy, as part of our daily lives. This is part of DEWA’s efforts to raise environmental awareness among the community, and encourage a sustainable life style and the rational use of electricity and water resources.

DEWA organised a special event at Dubai Festival City Mall from 21-23 October. Activities included workshops, and scientific and interactive contests. All activities aim to enhance awareness on energy conservation and sustainability, as well as enhance the role of individuals, to achieve environmental sustainability.  DEWA urges the positive participation of the community in World Energy Day, as well as the joint effort of individuals, government and private organisations, to achieve the Dubai Plan 2021 to make Dubai a smart, integrated, and connected city whose resources are sustainable. The collective efforts will conserve energy and will help reduce the carbon footprint, create a sustainable future for coming generations, and enhance the pillars of sustainability.

DEWA urges government entities and organisations to participate in World Energy Day, by promoting the international event, and benefiting from promotional materials available on DEWA’s website. DEWA also encourages activities and workshops to raise awareness in regards to sustainability at home and at the workplace. Examples include setting ACs to a higher temperature to reduce energy consumption, and reduce cost. DEWA also urges the greater use of the hashtag #WorldEnergyDay. Individuals can adopt a sustainable lifestyle by following simple procedures, such as switching off or unplugging any unnecessary chargers or appliances, and checking energy labels to ensure sure customers are purchasing energy efficient products. Buying an energy efficient fridge and freezer could make a difference compared to other inefficient models. Size is an important factor, so decide how big your appliance needs to be, and compare the efficiency rate. DEWA recommends switching to LED or energy efficient light bulbs and using water saving aerators. 

“In adherence with the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to follow a comprehensive programme to ensure a sustainable economy for generations to come, DEWA is committed to increasing dependence on clean energy resources, through adopting Research and Development (R&D) and innovation, while working towards the diversification of the energy mix. World Energy Day is an Emirati initiative, for the whole world to follow and encourage international economies towards the post-oil phase,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.

“The aim of organising this celebration is to support policies that will increase energy efficiency by expanding efficient processes in the industry, construction and electricity networks, plus increasing energy efficiency and sustainability procedures of urban planning regionally,” added Al Tayer.

“DEWA strives to encourage all members of society to adopt rational use as part of their daily life. This is achieved by encouraging customers to reduce their electricity and water consumption. Through our activities, events, and campaigns, we urge everyone to adopt a conscious and responsible lifestyle, to ensure the sustainability of resources for generations to come. We urge all individuals, companies, and organisations to participate in World Energy Day this year, to achieve conservation and remarkable results,” said Khawla Al Mehairi, Vice President of Marketing & Corporate Communications at DEWA.

The objective is to ensure the affordability of safe and sustainable energy for everyone, while working to develop national policies, to reflect a shared global energy perspective. Objectives also include strengthening policies relevant to implementing and developing mechanisms and frameworks to exchange experiences between countries around the world. This includes promoting the development of human resources, to pursue the common good of all human beings, and continue the rational use of fossil fuels in the global economy while accelerating the process of transformation towards safer renewable energy sources. DEWA is expecting great participation in World Energy Day, and the Green Ribbon Pledge, to increase environmental awareness, and introduce the community to environmental practices, while encouraging rational consumption, to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Over the past two years, the Green Ribbon Pledge has witnessed the participation of over 27,000 people, who pledged eco-friendliness and to adopt practices that help conserve energy.