Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2015, which began yesterday, arrives at a time when renewable energy sources are gaining momentum around the world, as decreasing costs and improving technology coincide with concerns over global warming, with 2014 being declared the hottest year on earth since 1880. Global research predicts renewable energy generation will outstrip the use of fossil fuels within a few years.
The UAE, despite being an oil-producing country, has been making steady progress in increasing its adoption of renewable energy by investing heavily in solar energy. It is also adopting nuclear power, which does not have the carbon footprint of fossil fuels.
As The National reported over the weekend, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has announced that by 2017, it will double the output of its 100 megawatt solar power park. This comes as part of a long-term strategy to diversify the emirate's energy sources in accordance with a resolution passed last month.
Having huge projects – such as Dubai’s solar plant and Abu Dhabi’s Shams 1 solar farm – will ensure the goal to diversify energy generation away from fossil fuel is achievable. But the UAE recognises the reality that the future of renewable energy relies on a combination of thinking big and small. These efforts are being backed by other initiatives, such as the new water saving app announced in Abu Dhabi last week by the social-responsibility organisation Natham. The app will be launched in a couple of weeks to reward residents who manage to reduce their water consumption. On January 1, the emirate increased its water and electricity tariffs to encourage prudent use of these resources.
As well as moving as a country towards sustainable power generation, the UAE is also ensuring the community shares its goals. Events linked to sustainability week, such as the second annual Masdar City festival, are also important to raise public awareness on the issue among adults and children alike. Activities will include windmill building and science, arts and eco-craft workshops.
The move to renewable energy will require the participation of everyone living in the UAE. As Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, said: “The future depends on the steps we take today.”
