King of Eswatini learns about DEWA's efforts to achieve net zero by 2050 during his visit to the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park

His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini visited the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, where he learned about the efforts of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in achieving sustainability, as well as the latest solutions, innovations, and pioneering projects implemented by DEWA at the world’s largest single-site solar park. During a tour of DEWA's Sustainability and Innovation Centre, King Mswati and his delegation were briefed about the solar park, which is based on the independent power producer (IPP) model. By the end of 2024, the solar park’s production capacity reached 3,060 MW from photovoltaic solar panels and concentrated solar power. Clean energy currently accounts for about 20% of Dubai's total energy mix. By 2030, DEWA aims to raise the capacity of the solar park to 7,260 MW, increasing the share of clean power in Dubai’s energy mix to 34%.

The delegation was briefed about other DEWA projects that support the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 to ensure renewable and clean sources account for 100% of the Emirate’s energy production capacity by 2050. These include the 250MW hydroelectric power plant in Hatta, the first of its kind in the GCC region; the Green Hydrogen Project, the first project of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa to produce hydrogen using solar energy; and the EV Green Charger initiative, launched in 2014 to support green mobility. DEWA, in collaboration with its partners, has installed around 740 charging stations throughout Dubai.

Additionally, the delegation learnt about DEWA's sustainable buildings and initiatives in digital transformation. Officials at the Sustainability and Innovation Centre briefed the delegation on the centre's efforts, which is a global incubator for innovation in various areas of renewable and clean energy. The centre aims to develop skills and build the capacity of the next generation of innovators in clean energy technologies, with a focus on developing and refining the talent of young Emiratis, as well as providing a unique learning environment by hosting events, conferences, seminars and workshops. It also aims to build partnerships with local and international universities and start-ups in the areas of innovation and the exchange of knowledge and experiences, and to raise awareness about clean energy and sustainability. The centre also provides a unique experience for visitors to explore the latest innovations in clean energy technologies.

The visiting delegation thanked DEWA for the opportunity to learn about its experience in developing the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park and commended DEWA's efforts in renewable and clean energy and sustainability, as well as its achievements in innovation and research and development. They also praised the Sustainability and Innovation Centre's innovative exhibitions and experiences.