Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) | The R&D Centre enhances DEWA’s leadership and excellence through Tatweer Collaboration Programme

The Tatweer Collaboration Programme launched by the R&D Centre of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has contributed to providing effective and sustainable solutions to challenges faced by different DEWA divisions. DEWA’s engineers and employees participating in the programme have developed systems and programmes that contribute to constant improvement of the organisations’ key operations using innovation and research.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, praised the employees for their efforts to develop proactive and constructive solutions. This consolidates DEWA’s globally leading position and achieves its vision to become a globally leading sustainable innovative corporation. Al Tayer noted that the R&D Centre at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park consolidates the Solar Park’s position as a global hub for research and development.

 “The R&D Centre contributes to DEWA anticipating the future to develop proactive long-term plans to keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It also innovates disruptive technologies that provide world-class services to enhance the quality of life in Dubai. The Centre aligns with national plans and strategies and the Dubai 10X initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which mandates the Government of Dubai to be a global leader that is 10 years ahead of other cities. The R&D Centre aims to enhance Dubai’s global position in research and development in solar energy, smart grids, energy efficiency and water. It also strives to build capacity in these sectors to help Dubai meet sustainable development needs. Moreover, the Centre enriches the scientific community in the UAE and the world. This is through disseminating knowledge, and nurturing talents of Emirati researchers,” said Al Tayer.

 “The R&D Centre aims to become a global platform for launching promising technologies. This maintains DEWA’s position at the forefront of utilities worldwide. The Centre hosts 41 researchers including 24 PhD holders and master degree holders. Through the ‘Al Baheth’ programme, the Centre develops capabilities and attracts Emirati graduates to become part of its team. The ‘Tatweer Collaboration Programme’ promotes the culture of R&D among DEWA’s employees. It also supports Emirati capabilities and creates a sustainable approach for R&D projects at DEWA,” said Waleed Salman, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence at DEWA.

Dr. Saif Saeed Almheiri - Vice President Research and Development at DEWA, said that the efforts of the team are coming together to achieve the Centre’s objectives and DEWA’s vision to promote sustainability of energy supplies, diversify energy sources, and create a work environment that encourages innovation. This is by creating a platform for creativity and innovation in renewable energy, clean technologies, and training Emirati employees.

Key projects and systems developed by the Centre through the ‘Tatweer Collaboration Programme’ include:

Online Condition Monitoring of Distribution Underground Cables

The R&D Centre has developed a system for monitoring of DEWA’s distribution underground cables using Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, state-of-the-art sensor technologies and big data. The system helps monitor medium voltage underground distribution network with predictive analytics, incipient fault detection evaluating the health and long-term performance of distribution cable circuits in real-time.  This effectively prioritises cable repair and replacement to ensure the highest reliability and accountability standards.

A system for investigating Harmonic Emissions from on-grid PV inverters

This project is part of DEWA’s efforts to develop its Shams Dubai initiative, which encourages building owners to install solar photovoltaic rooftop energy systems and connect them to DEWA’s grid. The system investigates the Harmonic Voltage and Emissions from on-Grid PV Inverters. These emissions can affect the quality of the electricity network. The system helps learn about the types and concepts of Harmonic Voltages in PV inverters and the impact of active external filters. This will help DEWA update its power quality guidelines; improve the relevant assessment procedures and mitigation techniques of inverter-based installations interfaced with its network.