Public urged to save on water, power in Abu Dhabi

With new tariffs for electricity and water use due to come into effect in Abu Dhabi from the start of next year, the public is being reminded of the different ways to cut down on their usage and save money.

ABU DHABI // With new tariffs for electricity and water use due to come into effect from the start of next year, the public is being reminded of the different ways to cut down on their usage and save money.

From relatively simple steps, such as installing energy-efficient lightbulbs and water fixtures, to costlier measures such as optimising the performance of air-conditioning chillers and reusing grey water, there are many ways to reduce the use of resources, said Abdulaziz Al Shamsi, executive director of customer service at Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC).

While the price hike still does not mean Abu Dhabi users will pay the full cost for the power and water they consume, it is expected to lead to an overall reduction in use.

“This change lets the customer understand the value of power and water and to help them to reduce consumption as well,” said Mr Al Shamsi.

Sometimes bills can be reduced by simple changes in behaviour, said Abdulla Al Sheryani, customer service director at Al Ain Distribution Company.

Mr Al Sheryani urged customers to monitor the amount of water they were using and foster better habits, such as using a bucket instead of a hose when cleaning their cars, to reduce consumption.

“The same goes for ACs and electricity – whatever does not need to be used should not be consumed. Lights in rooms with no people should be switched off.”

More tips regarding the efficient use of utilities can be found online on ADDC’s website, where users can also see the impact of price hikes through an online calculator.

Announced in November, the new tariff system has different rates depending on consumption. Expatriates will face the biggest increases.

The current rate of Dh2.2 per 1,000 litres will more than double to Dh5.95 for expatriates living in flats who consume up to 700 litres per day.

A higher, yet unannounced tariff will be charged above that threshold. Expatriates living in villas will be charged Dh5.95 per 1,000 litres for consumption of up to 5,000 litres per day.

While UAE nationals in Abu Dhabi currently get water free of charge, they will be charged Dh1.7 per 1,000 litres from January if they live in flats and consume up to 700 litres. Higher consumption will be charged at Dh1.89 per 1,000 litres.

Villa residents will be charged the lower tariff for consumption of up to 7,000 litres a day and the higher tariff – Dh1.89 per 1,000 litres – for anything above that.

Electricity prices for expatriates will increase from 15 fils per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to 21 fils per kWh for those with a daily consumption of up to 20 kWh if they live in a flat and up to 200 kWh if they live in a villa.

At present UAE nationals pay 5 fils per kWh and will continue to pay the same if they live in a flat and use no more than 30kWh or in a villa and use no more than 400 kWh. Those using more will be charged 5.5 fils per kWh.