By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI: As the Sustainability Partner of the 18th edition of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) hosted a panel discussion at the festival focused on sustainability and climate issues. The event, which opened on 21 January and ends on 27 January, is being held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
“For the 10th consecutive year, DEWA continues to support the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature as a Sustainability Partner. In line with our efforts to strengthen the UAE’s position as a content, culture and knowledge hub, we support inspiring knowledge and education-driven events that nurture a love for reading as a key driver of progress, human development and a brighter and greener future.
Furthermore, we are committed to raising awareness about effective strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change, actively involving all segments of society in advancing sustainability initiatives, and promoting the adoption of a responsible and ecofriendly lifestyle,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
DEWA’s Sustainability and Innovation Centre, located at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, hosted the panel discussion titled ‘Hope in the Climate Crisis’, featuring Dr Thomas Doherty, author of Surviving Climate Anxiety. The session was attended by schoolchildren and university students, along with individuals committed to advancing climate action and protecting the environment and natural resources. Additionally, participants were accompanied on an educational tour of the centre, which is recognised as one of Dubai’s prominent landmarks and a premier destination for those interested in discovering the latest innovation in clean and renewable energy technologies.
The centre offers visitors a unique journey through the latest advancements in clean energy technologies. The first-floor exhibition area highlights DEWA’s journey, key historical milestones and innovation in electricity, featuring more than 35 interactive exhibits focused on clean and renewable energy developments. The centre also houses the DEWA Museum, water desalination plant models and a visual space explaining the properties of light and solar radiation. Additional exhibitions showcase critical components of photovoltaic solar cells, concentrated solar power tower technology, Smart DEWA initiatives and DEWA’s sustainable building developments. Visitors can experience innovative drone and hologram shows, as well as interactive attractions.
Through metaverse technology, the centre offers a virtual tour of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world’s largest single-site solar park.
